RIGA, Oct 14 (LETA) - Representatives of the EU cities and regions have adopted the opinion of Kuldiga municipal council chairwoman Inga Berzina (New Unity) on initiative Pathways to School Success which the European Commission plans to use to improve education results for European youth, LETA learned from the European Committee of Regions.

Berzina presented her opinion at the plenary session of the committee on Wednesday.

Berzina underscored the role of regions and cities in modernization of education infrastructure, promotion of equal opportunities and development of models and solutions based on local situation.

The initiative Pathways to School Success urges to promote active engagement of all members of school community and external stakeholders.

The opinion notes that in order to achieve considerable goals, reduce underachievement and early leaving of education, the support provided by local governments is significant.

Berzina said that 84.3 percent of European youth have obtained secondary education, and every fifth resident at the age of 15 may not complete the basic tasks in reading, mathematics and natural sciences.

"Good quality and inclusive education and training systems that are accessible for everyone, irrespective of the personal traits, family, culture and socio-economic situation of the educatees, not only forms a path to success at schools, but also marks our path towards social cohesion and sustainable economy in the EU," the Berzina.

Considering the impact of the Russian war in Ukraine, the energy crisis and steep inflation on state and municipal budgets, long-term support of EU structural funds to municipal projects in modernization of school environment is crucial.