Education Caught in the Conflicting Demands of State, Market and Society

Considering that the economy is becoming ever more international, quantity and quality of education and training are a key element of the interaction between the state, the labour market and society. A high level of education among the population and a high quality of its educational system are important prerequisites for economic success and for the competitiveness of an economy, as well as the basis for creativity and utilisation of technical, social and organisational innovations. At the same time, education and training help master the challenges resulting from globalisation and an aging population. They provide the framework to respond to technological change and benefit from globalisation. On an individual level, a better education which can be put to use in the labour market will lead to a higher personal income and reduce the risk of unemployment, especially among older workers.