The Steering Committee for Education (CDEDU) during its spring plenary session elected its new leadership and bureau members, marking a significant step forward in shaping the future of educational policy initiatives across Europe. Under the terms of reference, the committee proceeded to elect its Chair and Vice-Chair, who will lead the Committee's efforts in advancing educational objectives and fostering collaboration among member states.

Ms. Maria-Anne Persoons (Belgium) was elected as the new Chair of the CDEDU. With a wealth of experience in educational leadership and policymaking, Ms Persoons is poised to provide strategic direction and ensure the committee's initiatives at European level align with educational priorities in member states.

Joining Ms Persoons in steering the Committee's activities is Ms. Mélanie Lizé (France), who was elected as Vice-Chair. Ms. Lizé brings a strong dedication to educational equity and innovation, promising to contribute significantly to the Committee's agenda.

In addition to the Chair and Vice-Chair appointments, the Committee welcomed four new CDEDU Bureau members, each will be serving a two-year mandate. The Bureau members were elected for their expertise and commitment to educational excellence and will play pivotal roles in shaping policy recommendations and fostering cooperation among member states.

The newly appointed bureau members are:

• Ms. Laura Limperk-Kütaru (Estonia)
• Mr. Gudni Olgeirsson (Iceland)
• Ms. Natia Natsvlishvili (Georgia)
• Mr. Bernard Wicht (Switzerland)   

Along with the Bureau members, Rapporteurs, members of the academic community and NGO representatives were designated  for a 2-year mandate:

Gender Equality Rapporteur

• Ms. Sílvia Ferreira (Portugal)

Members of the academic community

• Mr. Giuseppe Ronsisvalle (University of Catania, Italy)
• Ms. Pil Maria Saugmann ( EURODOC)

NGO Representatives

• Ms. Claude Vivier le Got (FEDE)
• Ms. Iris Kimizoglu (ESU)

With a blend of experience and fresh perspectives, the newly elected Bureau members are committed to enrich the committee's deliberations and contribute to the advancement of the democratic mission of education across Europe.

The newly elected Bureau will meet in June to discuss the next steps and upcoming work. Ms Persoons expressed gratitude for the trust placed in the committee's leadership.

The Steering Committee for Education looks forward to embarking on this new chapter under the guidance of its newly elected leadership and bureau members. Together, with the secretariat of the Council of Europe, they are committed to advancing educational opportunities, promoting digital literacy, and fostering inclusive and rights-based approaches to education across Europe.