EFEE has submitted its final contribution to the European Commission’s second-stage consultation on the Quality Jobs Act, bringing the perspective of education employers into the ongoing discussion on quality employment in Europe.
EFEE supports the objective of strengthening job quality as a foundation for European competitiveness, resilience and social cohesion. For the education sector, quality jobs and quality education are closely connected: sustainable working conditions are essential to attracting, developing and retaining qualified staff and ensuring high-quality, inclusive and innovative education and training systems.
A proportionate and sector-sensitive approach
In its contribution, EFEE stresses that future EU action must recognise the diversity of education employers, which operate across early childhood education and care, schools, VET, higher education and research, and within very different governance, funding and industrial relations systems.
EFEE therefore calls for EU action that is targeted, evidence-based and proportionate, while respecting subsidiarity and the autonomy of social partners. Where adequate legislation already exists, the priority should be effective implementation, practical guidance and simplification rather than creating overlapping requirements.
The contribution addresses several areas under consideration for the Quality Jobs Act, including AI and algorithmic management, occupational safety and health, psychosocial risks, subcontracting, fair transitions and preparedness.
On AI in particular, EFEE highlights its potential to support education staff, improve work organisation and reduce administrative burdens, while stressing that its use must remain ethical, transparent and inclusive, with human oversight and respect for professional autonomy.
Social dialogue at the centre
EFEE also underlines the importance of European, national and sectoral social dialogue in responding to changes affecting education workplaces. Social partners have a key role in developing solutions that reflect the realities of individual sectors and national education systems.
As Europe navigates the digital, green and demographic transitions, EFEE will continue working to ensure that the perspective of education employers is reflected in discussions on the future of work and that quality employment supports strong and sustainable education and training systems across Europe.
Read efee contribution here