The European Commission has recently announced an ambitious initiative aimed at modernising education across the continent. With the introduction of the Education Package 2040 Roadmap, the focus is squarely on addressing three structural challenges that are seen as currently impacting the quality and equity of education systems: the decline in basic skills, growing teacher shortages, and the pressing need for a digitally sovereign infrastructure. This development is particularly relevant for professionals in vocational education and training, as well as teachers, trainers, and researchers who are dealing with these issues in their practice..

A core component of the proposed package is the commitment to reversing the long-term negative trend in basic skills attainment. International surveys have consistently shown falling attainment over the past decade in reading, mathematics, science, and digital skills among lower secondary school students. The Commission highlights that children’s socio-economic background and territorial disparities contribute disproportionately to this trend, reinforcing educational disadvantages. The planned EU-level support aims to complement national and regional actions, potentially introducing basic skills acceleration measures such as evidence-based teaching and enhanced teacher education.

Equally important is the focus on the teaching profession itself. The European Union acknowledges that teacher shortages, especially in STEM subjects and vocational education, are undermining the performance of education systems. With a significant portion of the teaching workforce nearing retirement age, there is an urgent need to make the profession more attractive. The upcoming EU Teachers Agenda is expected to address professional development, working conditions, and strategies to tackle these shortages, ensuring effective recruitment and retention in an increasingly diverse classroom environment.

Furthermore, the roadmap addresses the critical issue of digital sovereignty in education. Currently, Europe’s education systems rely heavily on non-EU digital providers for core services, which limits pedagogical autonomy and increases dependence on external standards. The modernisation pillar of the package aims to promote digital transformation with a focus on human agency, inclusion, and digital sovereignty in the age of AI. This includes developing secure, accessible, and pedagogically sound digital education infrastructure aligned with European values, as well as rolling out AI literacy and skills frameworks.

The European Commission is now inviting stakeholders to contribute to this initiative through a Call for Evidence. This is an opportunity for educators, researchers, and civil society to share their views, evidence, and best practices to help shape the final Education Package. The consultation seeks feedback on various aspects, including how to strengthen cooperation between schools and authorities, and which digital tools currently support teaching and learning effectively.

Contributions can be submitted via the ‘Have Your Say’ portal until the 8th of September. By participating in this consultation, professionals in the education sector can ensure that the forthcoming policies are grounded in practical realities and address the genuine needs of learners and educators alike.

References

[1] European Commission. (2026). Commission launches Call for Evidence on new Education Package. https://education.ec.europa.eu/whats-new/news/commission-launches-call-for-evidence-on-new-education-package

[2] European Commission. (2026). Call for Evidence for an Initiative: Education Package 2040 Roadmap. Ref. Ares(2026)7501248.