In 2000, the European Council Meeting held in Lisbon put forward a challenge -  that of turning the European Union into the most competitive and dynamic knowledge-based economy in the world, capable of sustainable economic growth with more and better jobs and greater social cohesion.  Education is the key to individual life chances – each person's opportunity for cultural, economic and social participation. In its key messages for the European Spring Council 2007, the Education Council has stressed the importance of education and training as a prerequisite for a well-functioning knowledge triangle (education – research – innovation). Education and training contribute decisively to promoting growth and employment and guarantee equal opportunities and social cohesion for all citizens.

It is in this context that Forum Malta fl-Ewropa organized a very successful half-day Conference on funding opportunities for education and training. The event, entitled ‘Education and Training: Exploring Funding Opportunities’ was held on 10 July at the Westin Dragonara Resort, St Julians.  Participants were addressed by Joseph Lynn Micallef (FME Funding Support Officer), Jeanette Busuttil (Programme Manager - Youth in Action Programme), Gabriella Agius (Projects Officer - Lifelong Learning Programme),  Mauro Miceli (Projects Officer - Lifelong Learning Programme) and Alison Mizzi from the PPCD. The programmes which will be discussed are the Youth in Action Programme, Leonardo da Vinci, Grundtvig and opportunities for training part-financed by the European Social Fund. The Conference also included a presentation providing some tips on EU funding, as well as a panel discussion featuring Maltese beneficiaries of EU opportunities in education and training. A very interactive discussion with participation from the floor ensued.