Recital (4)

In order to enhance economic and social progress, including upward convergence, to support the green and digital transitions, to strengthen the Union industrial base and competitiveness and to achieve inclusive and resilient labour markets in the Union, Member States should address labour and skills shortages and promote quality and inclusive education and training for all, with a particular focus on improving basic skills, especially among disadvantaged students, and on STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) in school and higher education, future-oriented vocational education and training, and lifelong upskilling and reskilling, as well as effective active labour market policies and improved working conditions and career opportunities while respecting the role and autonomy of the social partners. That is of particular relevance for the less developed, remote and outermost regions of the Union, where the needs are the greatest. Shortages can be further addressed by improving fair intra-EU mobility for workers and learners and attracting talent from outside the Union. In addition, the links between the education and training systems and the labour market should be strengthened, and skills, knowledge and competences acquired through non-formal and informal learning should be recognised.