eucen Policy Talks | 17 September 2026

Recognition of Skills for European Competitiveness: The Strategic Role of University Lifelong Learning | Management, Pedagogy, Quality, HE-VET, Inclusion

Europe’s competitiveness increasingly depends on its ability to recognise and mobilise citizens’ skills in a rapidly changing world. As the green and digital transitions reshape labour markets, flexible systems for recognising skills (wherever they are acquired) are becoming essential. Universities, through University Lifelong Learning (ULLL), play a key role by offering continuing education, micro-credentials, and validation of prior learning in close collaboration with employers and communities.

This edition of the eucen Policy Talks have brought together policymakers, higher education leaders and stakeholders to discuss how stronger recognition frameworks can support upskilling, workforce mobility and inclusive lifelong learning, contributing to a more agile, skilled and competitive Europe.

Opening by Maria Rodriguez (Deputy Representative Government Catalonia) and Pascal Paschoud (President of eucen)
Keynote address by Stefaan Hermans (DG EAC)
Short Presentation MESHE data on learners (Lyndsey El Amoud) PRESENTATION
Policy Panel with Ricardo Espinoza (OECD), Larisa Panait (Eurochambers), Therese Zhang (EUA)
Lighting Talks with:
– Benoit Berthou (Univpro) PRESENTATION
– Manda Broekhuis (ULLO) PRESENTATION
– Darryll Bravenboer (UALL) PRESENTATION
Final Reflections by Edith Hammer (UNESCO Institute of LLL)
Thanks and closing

You might want to read this post with the summary of the session.

Venue: Delegation of the Government of Catalonia in Brussels. 227 rue de Loi. 1040 Brussels (BE)