Tertiary education is becoming increasingly important in EU’s labour market due to the increased demand for highly skilled and specialized individuals. Moreover, higher education is essential in a society as it fosters innovation, increases economic development and growth, and improves the well-being of citizens in general.

Towards that end, the EU has set the target of increasing the share of EU population aged 25-34 who have completed tertiary education to 45% by 2030.

According to Eurostat in 2021, 41% of EU’s population aged 25-34 had completed tertiary education. In fact, almost half of the EU members have already met the 2030 goal with Luxembourg and Ireland topping the list, with a record of more than 60% of tertiary education attainment in ages between 25-34.

Cyprus, ranked third on the list, with 59%.

By contrast, the lowest shares were recorded in Romania (23%), Italy (28%) and Hungary (33%)

Additionally, the proportion of men with tertiary education has increased over the last ten years but at a slower pace than women.

According to Eurostat, there exists a slight gender gap as 47% of women aged 25-34 have attained tertiary education against 36% recorded for males.

Source: Cyprus Mail