Education 2010

Breaking the cycle of disadvantage
Social inclusion in and through education – conference 28-29 September

Breaking the cycle of disadvantage – Social inclusion in and through education

There are still large differences in the field of social inclusion within the European Union. Therefore, the reduction of inequality, poverty and social exclusion is a major challenge and must remain a priority. This challenge applies to all policy areas, but education has a crucial role. Policy makers, social partners, experts, researchers, education and formation providers will debate on this topic. This two-day conference wants to examine the European, national and regional policies, and take a close look at good practice models. The central focus is on equality and inclusion on all education levels.

Detailed info

The varying degree of social inclusion in the European Member States shows that driving back inequality and exclusion is still a major challenge. Such an effort is geared towards structural changes as well as support for pupils or students who are at greater risk of exclusion. Equality and excellence can go perfectly well together. They are complementary and must be strived for at the national and the European level. Although the situation is different in each Member State, European cooperation can nonetheless help find new ways to stimulate social inclusion and fairness without penalising excellence in the process.

Education and training encourage social inclusion, as well as active citizenship and personal development. Quality education enhances the chance of social mobility and of breaking the vicious cycle of poverty and social exclusion. Unfortunately, however, education and training systems often still operate on an unequal basis when it comes to access to quality education, for instance.

This conference aims to highlight European, national and regional policy and models of good practices, where equality and inclusion are promoted at all levels of education (preschool, compulsory, higher and adult education).

Policymakers, social partners, experts, researchers, education and training providers and civil society will be given an opportunity to engage in discussions.

The conference will also provide an opportunity to mark the 30th anniversary of the Eurydice network.

Practical info

• Date: 28-29 September 2010
• Location: Gent
• Venue: Het Pand, UGent
• Address: Onderbergen 1. 9000 Gent, Belgium
• Contact: Flemish Community, Department of Education and Training, International Relations
• Phone: + 32 2 553 98 62
• Fax: + 32 2 553 98 85
• E-mail: educ.presidency@vlaanderen.be