On 26th of November 2007 the European Qualification Framework has been officially launched. It will act as a translation device between the Member States' qualifications systems.

The European Qualification Framework shifts the focus away from learning inputs (such as the length of a learning experience, or the type of institution), to learning outcomes.

The expected effects are:

• a better match between education and the needs of the labour market;

• the validation of non-formal and informal learning;

• the transfer and use of qualifications across different countries.

More information: European Commission Press release