Ministry of Science
and Higher Education

International cooperation in the field of education and higher education

The meeting touched on the plans that Poland, Denmark and Cyprus have for the next 18 months, including priority directions and the calendar of events organized by the next presidencies. The Polish side presented its intentions in the area of education and youth, including inclusive education and the social dimension of education. Ministers from Denmark and Cyprus agreed on the need to develop the skills necessary to face global challenges and changes on the labor market. They also noted the importance of cooperation between higher education institutions and other key players in the context of lifelong education and mental health in academia.

“I would like to express my gratitude for the opportunity to present our plans for the presidency and to discuss among ourselves our collective efforts in the face of the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. In today’s world, measuring up to global challenges requires a collective effort. The rapidly evolving labor market and ongoing social changes require higher education institutions to adapt and provide students, researchers, teaching staff and lifelong learners with the right tools to acquire the skills necessary to navigate this transformation. It is important that we are ready and adequately prepared to build a society that is resilient to various types of crises,” said the Minister of Science.

The concept of a common European diploma

The higher education discussions focused on the concept of a common European diploma and the challenges of implementing it in different member states. Attention was paid to the need for an in-depth discussion of the criteria for the common diploma and the need to understand how the diploma may affect the education systems in different countries.

“Poland has set a very ambitious goal for its presidency, namely the adoption of a Council resolution on a common European diploma. That is why I consider today’s trilateral meeting to be crucial, taking into account both the timing and the status of work on the higher education package, particularly the concept of a common European diploma, and the different opinions among member states. Poland will, of course, seek a compromise,” Minister Dariusz Wieczorek stressed. “We very much look forward to a constructive discussion and openness among all member states in this process. Your role as the next presidencies is of utmost importance to us, so that this process can be completed in the first half of 2025,” he added.