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FOREWORD
As our workplaces change under the twin impulses of globalization and
technological progress, so do the skills required by employers. To help young
people keep up with these changing requirements, the European Commission
has been working on issues surrounding skills and their acquisition.
Formal education aside, it is increasingly evident that non-formal and informal
learning, for example through volunteering or participation in youth
organisations, play a key role in providing young people with so-called "soft"
skills which are highly valued and appreciated by prospective
employers. These skills include the capacity for teamwork and for
communicating effectively, coupled with a well-developed sense of initiative
and self-confidence.
It is in my view essential that this experience is adequately recognised. My
proposal for a Council Recommendation on the validation of non-formal and
informal learning indicates concrete ways to improve formal recognition of
youth work and other non-formal learning opportunities.
The importance of this type of learning is confirmed by empirical evidence
from the Youth in Action programme: 75% of European Voluntary Service
participants say that the experience has improved their employment
prospects.
This study commissioned by the European Youth Forum is a valuable addition
to this growing body of evidence and I am sure it will prove an important
contribution to the debate.
Commissioner Androulla Vassiliou
European Commissioner for Education, Culture, Multilingualism and Youth.
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