Agenda Profile: Signe Riisalo

The Minister of Education and Research's 2025 presentation on the implementation of the state's long-term development strategy "Estonia 2035"

2025-05-15

15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary session

Political Position
The political focus centers on the future of vocational education for young people with special needs and preparing this target group for the labor market. The speaker expresses concern over the reduction in study places and curricula but simultaneously acknowledges the ministry's administrative support provided thus far. This is a policy- and results-based framework that requires a clear future vision from the ministry.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates knowledge in the field of vocational education for youth with special needs, referencing a specific institution (Astangu Vocational Rehabilitation Centre) and administrative changes (within the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Education and Research [HTM]). Specific terms such as "curricula" and "vocational training" are used, emphasizing the need for maximum preparation for the labor market.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The style is formal and respectful, beginning with the salutation "Dear Minister!". The tone is concerned but constructive, focusing on a logical framing of the issue and the use of a specific example (the Astangu Centre) to justify the concern.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker's approach involves direct communication with sector stakeholders, such as the recent conversation with the head of the Astangu Vocational Rehabilitation Centre. This demonstrates active information gathering and the raising of concerns via specialists in the field.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
Insufficient data

1 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The style of cooperation is appreciative, acknowledging the ministry's positive steps (such as retaining the Astangu Centre under its jurisdiction). However, critical questions are simultaneously being raised regarding the lack of a future vision and policy deficiencies. A constructive dialogue is sought to find solutions.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on national education and social policy, specifically referencing a key institution of nationwide importance (the Astangu Centre) and the administrative domain of the Ministry of Education and Research.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The economic perspective emphasizes maximizing the preparation of young people with special needs for the labor market, which signifies an investment in human capital and boosting employment. The objective is to ensure that vocational education serves the needs of the labor market, even for the target group with special needs.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The primary social issue is the inclusion and support of young people with special needs through vocational education, ensuring their equal opportunities when entering the labor market. The necessity of maintaining and developing specialized study places and curricula is emphasized.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is aimed at implementing strategic documents (e.g., "Estonia 2035") within the education sector, specifically concentrating on future plans for vocational education curricula and training slots for young people with special needs.

1 Speeches Analyzed