Breaking the cycle of disadvantage – Social inclusion in and through education
There are still major differences in social inclusion within the European Union. Putting an end to inequality, poverty and social exclusion is therefore a key challenge and must remain a priority. This challenge applies to every policy area, but education plays a crucial role in this regard. Policy makers, social partners, experts, researchers, and education and training providers will debate this issue at the conference. This two-day conference will put European, national and regional policy under the microscope, together with good practice models. Equality and inclusion across all levels of education are paramount.
The varying degree of social inclusion in the European Member States is indicative of the fact that putting an end to inequality and exclusion is still a major challenge. Meeting this challenge calls for both structural changes and additional support for pupils and students at greater risk of exclusion. Equality and excellence go hand in hand: they complement each other and must be pursued at both national and European level. Even though the situation in each Member State is different, European cooperation can help with finding new ways of achieving social inclusion and fostering fairness without sacrificing excellence.
Education and training promote social inclusion, as do active citizenship and personal development. High-quality education increases the chances of social mobility and of breaking the vicious circle of poverty and social exclusion. Unfortunately, education and training schemes are still all too frequently based on inequality, for example as regards access to high-quality education.
This conference will put European, national and regional policy and models of good practice under the spotlight with a view to promoting equality and inclusion across all levels of education (preschool, compulsory, higher and adult education).
Policy makers, social partners, experts, researchers, education and training providers and civil society will have the opportunity to debate this issue.
The 30th anniversary of the European Eurydice network will also be celebrated at this conference.
28 September: 8.30 - 17.00
29 September: 8.30 - 13.00
More information:
educ.presidency@vlaanderen.be