On 17 July 2023 the Commission released its evaluation of the Upskilling Pathways initiative, in the form of a Report and Staff Working Document. The Commission evaluated the actions taken in response to the Council Recommendation on Upskilling Pathways, it investigated the progress made towards raising the levels of literacy, numeracy and digital skills amongst adults as well as towards providing those who are lower skilled with further upskilling opportunities. It also assessed the experience gained and drew implications for the future. The evaluation reports adopted as part of the European Year of Skills show a mixed picture in the implementation efforts.

The evaluation reports, based on the available evidence, paint a picture of overall moderate impact of the Recommendation:

– Relevant indicators show moderate positive trends

– Implementation has been uneven across the Member States with measures often lacking scale and coordination

– Some stakeholders view the Recommendation as a catalyst for renewed focus on support for adults to acquire basic skills as well as upskilling in general

– The three step-approach based on integrated pathways consisting of skills assessment, provision of tailored and flexible learning offer and validation and recognition is considered as a useful reference point

– The objectives of the Recommendations are still relevant

Based on the results of the evaluation and provided that labour shortages and skills mismatches are increasing, the implementation of the Council Recommendation on Upskilling Pathways clearly needs improvement. It is necessary to provide everyone with opportunities on the labour market and in society. It is equally necessary to fill the skills gaps on the labour market and drive forward the EU’s competitiveness and the green and digital transitions. Skills development throughout life is an individual right as spelled out in the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union, the European Pillar of Social Rights and translated into its Action Plan. Better implementation of Upskilling Pathways would contribute to putting this right in practice.

Download here the report from the Comission to the Council