The study supporting the evaluation of the Council Recommendation of 19 December 2016 on Upskilling Pathways: New Opportunities for Adults contributes to the evaluation staff working document of the European Commission.

The Council Recommendation of 19 December 2016 on Upskilling Pathways (2016/C 484/01) aims to ensure that everyone in society has the basic skills (numeracy, literacy, and digital skills), knowledge, and competences to play an active part in society and progress on the labour market. The Recommendation sets out a three-step approach to offering low-skilled adults access to upskilling pathways, through a skills assessment, a tailored and flexible learning offer, and validation and recognition of skills and competences. This approach is underpinned by outreach, guidance and support measures for learners, as well as coordination between relevant actors in education, training, employment, and social policy.

The study first outlines the change that has occurred between 2016 and 2021 with regards to upskilling pathways in Member States in response to the Recommendation. It then proceeds to assess the extent to which this response to the Recommendation has been effective, efficient, relevant, in coherence with other EU and national policies and programmes and has delivered EU added value. On the basis of these findings, it draws key lessons learned.

Executive summary

Note de synthèse

Zusammenfassung

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