The Edu4Standards project, initiated in January 2024 and funded by the European Union through the Horizon Europe program, aims to incorporate standardisation into education in Europe. Coordinated by Fraunhofer‑Gesellschaft, Institute for Systems and Innovation Research (ISI), it brings together a consortium of universities, higher education institutes, standardisation bodies and associations, and SMEs.

Despite the critical role of standardisation in promoting economic growth and sustainability, its presence in education has been fragmented and underdeveloped. By promoting the integration of standards and standardisation into curricula and trainings, the project empowers future generations of professionals by making them more aware of the importance of standards and standardisation and providing them required knowledge and skills.

Edu4Standards develops an innovative approach to teaching standardisation, while aligning the intended learning outcomes of the concept with European values. The project identifies and creates educational materials for diverse learning contexts and organizes events like the Academic Standardisation Days to bring together students, educators, and professionals across Europe. During these events, participants learn about the global economic impact of standards and their influence on technology, sustainability, and competitiveness.

The project also aims to significantly expand the number of higher education institutions offering standardisation courses. Additionally, the creation of an EU Student Standardisation Association will connect students and professionals, fostering a network to promote standardisation as a key driver of innovation and sustainability.

Edu4Standards is expected to have a transformative impact on European education and industry. By training educators and students in standardisation, the project creates a strong foundation for future experts who will enhance Europe’s global competitiveness, particularly in sustainable technology, green energy, and industrial innovation. The project’s outcomes, including a roadmap for standardisation education, will guide future reforms, ensuring that standardisation remains a core part of European higher education long after the project concludes. Furthermore, the development of a CEN Workshop Agreement (CWA) based on the innovative teaching concept will ensure the project’s results have a lasting, practical impact on future work in this field.

In summary, Edu4Standards is an important initiative that seeks to integrate standardisation more fully into academic curricula in Europe. By enhancing understanding and awareness of standards, the project will create a future where standardisation plays an essential role in supporting sustainability, economic growth, and Europe’s leadership in global markets.

EDU4standards Video