“Estonia and Denmark face similar challenges in education and science. Working together enables us to share best practices and find solutions that support high-quality education, science, and innovation,” said Minister Kallas.
During her visit, Minister Kallas presented Estonia’s positions on EU initiatives, including the European Degree initiative and the upcoming Framework Programme for Research and Innovation (FP10). In her meeting with Christina Egelund, she emphasized the importance of enhancing opportunities for smaller countries in scientific collaboration and ensuring a balance between science and innovation, alongside fostering strategic autonomy within the European Union.
In her discussions with Mattias Tesfaye, Minister Kallas explored topics related to school network and Denmark's recently launched vocational education reform. The Danish reform, aimed at attracting more young people to entrepreneurial-focused education, offers valuable insights for Estonia. The Minister also visited Denmark's largest vocational education center, NEXT, which focuses on sustainability and developing future skills, including in STEM fields.
During her visit, the Minister toured the Danish Parliament and met with Katrine Robsøe, Chair of the Higher Education and Research Committee.
Discussions with representatives of Denmark’s educational technology network focused on the future of edtech and sharing experiences in applying AI in education. This theme also featured in Minister Kallas’s interview with the Danish daily newspaper Politiken.
“We need to start teaching children cognitive skills much earlier—not at the master’s level, but already in kindergarten or the early stages of basic education. Early development of cognitive skills helps children better meet the challenges of future work, which demands critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity,” the Minister emphasized after the meeting.
Additionally, the Minister met with young Estonian researchers working at Danish universities to explore opportunities for cooperation in research institutions. She also visited the State of Green organization, where CEO Finn Mortensen presented Denmark's energy policies and green solutions.
