Minister R. Popovienė at the informal meeting of EU education ministers: We must ensure that every student has the opportunity to succeed
On October 15, Raminta Popovienė, Minister of Education, Science and Sport, attended an informal meeting of EU education ministers in Dublin, where issues related to students’ basic skills, lifelong learning, access to education, and inclusion were discussed.
The ministers shared practices of how EU countries are strengthening the development of young people’s basic skills, and discussed the results of the international PISA 2025 survey, which assessed the achievements of 15-year-olds in the areas of science, reading, mathematics, and digital literacy.
“In Lithuania, we strive to ensure that every student has the opportunity to succeed. One of the most important lessons we have learned is that strengthening basic skills requires a whole-school approach. Strong leadership, support for teachers, student well-being, and early assistance are at least as important as reforming the curriculum,” said Minister R. Popovienė.
Reducing regional disparities is among Lithuania's education priorities. School progress in municipalities is supported, and investment is made in leadership, school collaboration, and STEAM education.
Inclusive education is also being enhancned so that all students, regardless of their social background or special educational needs, have the opportunity to acquire solid basic skills. Curricula have also been updated and are competency-based, with greater emphasis placed on reading, mathematics, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
Europe is exploring ways to strengthen adult education
During the Council meeting, the ministers also discussed adult education: how the EU could create better conditions for people to start learning, return to learning, and adapt to rapidly changing labor market needs, digital technologies, and the green transition.
“Learning must be accessible, flexible, and directly related to personal and professional goals. That is why financial support, flexibility, and the ability to make one's own choices are extremely important,” Minister R. Popovienė emphasised.
Lithuania is one of the few EU countries where adults have access to an adult education platform that operates on the "one-stop" principle. On the KURSUOK platform, adults can choose the training courses they need, and the government covers part of the costs. When allocating government funding, priority is given to adults from socially vulnerable groups to ensure that government investments in training reach those who need them most.
Photo by Patricija Adamovič (BNS)
Last updated: 26-10-2026
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