Countries still face challenges in modernising higher education,
a decade after the launch of a blueprint for reform known as the
'Bologna Process'. The report, based on data provided by the 46
countries participating in the Process, shows that the economic
crisis has affected higher education in different ways, with some
countries investing more and others making radical cutbacks in
spending.
Androulla Vassiliou, European Commissioner for Education, Culture,
Multilingualism and Youth, said: 'The last decade has brought about
major expansion in higher education systems, accompanied by
significant reforms in degree structures and quality assurance
systems. We must continue to modernise and increase the quality of
higher education, as well as making it more affordable for
citizens. The new Europe 2020 Strategy will provide further impetus
for this, in particular by encouraging measures which aim to
increase the number of graduates from less than a third to at least
40% of the population.'
The Bologna Process put in motion a series of reforms to make
European higher education more compatible, comparable, competitive
and attractive for students. Its main objectives were:
- Introduction of a three-cycle degree system (bachelor, master,
doctorate)
- Quality assurance
- Recognition of qualifications and periods of study
In Budapest and Vienna, Commissioner Vassiliou will join
Ministers from the 46 countries participating in the Bologna
Process, together with representatives of stakeholder
organisations, to celebrate the official launch of the 'European
Higher Education Area' and to decide on the next steps to be
taken.
Focus on Higher Education in Europe 2010: The impact of the Bologna
Process, a report produced for the Commission by the Eurydice
Network, shows that the Bologna Process has largely met its initial
objectives, thanks to a joint approach which has delivered more
than would have been the case if countries had acted
separately.
The three-cycle degree system and higher quality standards are now
the norm across Europe, although recognition of qualifications is
still a problem in some cases.
The report highlights differing responses to the economic crisis
and concludes that it is more vital than ever for Europe to act
cohesively and to invest in higher education modernisation to help
citizens adapt to new economic, demographic and social realities.
Action to encourage socially disadvantaged groups and adult
learners to participate in higher education also needs to be
accelerated, it says.
The study also underlines that countries need to do more to
encourage student mobility. European programmes have been the major
catalyst in this area and it recommends that this should be a
priority for the European Higher Education Area.