Annex IV to BS/WG/ED/R(2026)1
ORGANIZATION OF THE BLACK SEA ECONOMIC COOPERATION
Recommendations for the Policy Framework and Action Plan of the BSEC Working Group on Education
1 January 2026 – 31 December 2027
Country-Coordinator: Republic of Türkiye
This Action Plan of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation Organization (BSEC) Working Group on Education (WGED) for the period 1 January 2026 – 31 December 2027 sets out the main priorities, objectives and coordinated activities aimed at strengthening regional cooperation in the field of education among the BSEC Member States.
The Action Plan is aligned with Goal 14: Higher Standard in Education and Training of the updated BSEC Economic Agenda “Towards a Sustainable Future of the Wider Black Sea Area.” It reflects the common commitment of the BSEC Member States to promote a resilient, innovative and data-informed regional education ecosystem, strengthening the interconnection between learning, employment and research across the region.
Under the coordination of Türkiye, the Working Group will further enhance the role of BSEC as an important platform for dialogue, policy exchange and the development of joint initiatives in the field of education. Particular emphasis will be placed on promoting the exchange of best practices and strengthening cooperation with relevant international organizations, academic and research institutions, and other regional stakeholders.
Within this framework, the Action Plan promotes a policy approach aimed at modernizing and transforming education systems through digitalization, inclusiveness, skills development and scientific cooperation. Its overarching objective is to contribute to the development of future-oriented and crisis-resilient education systems, while reinforcing regional cooperation mechanisms that support the integrated chain of education, skills development, employment and research among BSEC Member States.
1. Digital Transformation and the Future Compatibility of Education Systems
In line with the objective of enabling education systems to contribute to the development of knowledge-based societies and to respond effectively to global transformations, the Working Group will prioritize the advancement of digital transformation at both pedagogical and institutional levels.
In this context, the integration of artificial intelligence into educational curricula, the development of teachers’ digital competencies, and the advancement of digital learning platforms in accordance with commonly agreed standards will be promoted as areas of regional policy cooperation.
Digitalization is not only a strategic tool for improving educational practices, but also an important mechanism for ensuring the sustainability and resilience of education systems. In this regard, distance learning models, open educational resources, and technology-supported teaching methods may serve as key instruments for strengthening the resilience of education systems in times of crisis. The establishment of joint professional training programmes and regional networks for teachers, particularly in the area of digital content development, will also be encouraged.
Furthermore, efforts will be made to promote the integration of digital infrastructure with physical learning environments. Joint initiatives aimed at developing technological tools and equipment that respond to evolving learning needs may contribute simultaneously to enhancing the quality, accessibility and inclusiveness of education systems across the BSEC region.
2. Vocational and Technical Education
Vocational and technical education policies should be further developed as a strategic priority responding to the evolving needs of the labour market. Within this framework, the development of common competency frameworks among Member States, the introduction of modular training programmes, and the strengthening of partnerships between educational institutions and industry stakeholders may be promoted.
Increasing opportunities for practical and work-based learning, including internships, workplace training and international mobility programmes, as well as ensuring the active participation of industrial enterprises and professional organizations in educational processes, could significantly enhance the effectiveness of vocational education systems. Such initiatives are fully consistent with the BSEC objective of strengthening regional cooperation in vocational education.
In addition, the integration of digital and technological skills into vocational training programmes, together with the continuous updating of trainers’ professional qualifications, may serve as complementary measures supporting the quality assurance and relevance of vocational education systems.
3. Lifelong Learning
In order to expand learning opportunities for all and strengthen social cohesion, lifelong learning policies should be promoted as an important strategic priority.
In this context, the development of digital skills, entrepreneurship education and joint training programmes aligned with sustainable development goals may serve as key instruments for strengthening lifelong learning systems within the BSEC region.
Lifelong learning may also function as an important policy instrument for social inclusion. Programmes aimed at supporting the participation of disadvantaged groups in social and economic life, together with initiatives promoting family education and community-based learning, could contribute to strengthening social integration and inclusion.
Such efforts are consistent with broader international objectives aimed at ensuring inclusive, equitable and accessible education systems for all.
Overview
Within this framework, the Action Plan is structured around three core principles:
- Education systems strengthened through digital and pedagogical transformation
- Human resources supported by lifelong learning and stronger links between education and employment
- Inclusive and sustainable education systems supported by international and regional cooperation
It is expected that the proposed policies will contribute to the development of a comprehensive regional cooperation framework, fostering knowledge exchange and joint initiatives while enhancing the resilience, transformation capacity and social inclusiveness of education systems across the BSEC region.