14.11.2019

Adult Education and Citizenship

EAEA sees adult education as a central pillar to improving citizenship education within the European Union. In a newly published report on Adult Education and Citizenship, EAEA puts forward a number of recommendations on how to make citizenship a part of adult education provision.

The report discusses how citizenship education is becoming more poignant in contemporary society given the present political climate. Lifelong learning is a cornerstone to good citizenship education provision. By supporting people in developing the skills needed to engage actively in society they become better practiced, recognise how those skills remain relevant in an ever changing world, as well as involve those who did not receive appropriate citizenship education at school.

A very brief summary of the recommendations made:

  • Recognition and prioritisation of adult education, especially informal education, and adult education trainers
  • Policy makers should encourage the creation of opportunities for the adult learners to use and develop their citizenship skills
  • Education providers also have a role to play by encouraging citizenship-relevant skills: improving learners’ confidence and ability to participate they will be better prepared to engage as citizens when opportunities arise

Read the full AE and Citizenship paper pdf

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The SMALEI Final Conference: Empowering Adult Learning and Education for a Sustainable Future

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OECD’s recent Assessment of Adult Competencies and its meaning for European educators

On the 20th of February, EAEA and EBSN (European Basic Skills Network) organised a webinar dedicated to the recently published results of the PIAAC study. Highlighting learner stories, the webinar started with a personal one from Donna Ridings, followed by the keynote speaker Andreas Schleicher, the OECD's Director for Education and Skills. The panellists brought key insights into national, local and regional approaches, struggles and good practices.

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Advancing Gender Equality in Lifelong Learning: Insights from the Gender Equality Task Force Kick-off Meeting

At the beginning of February, the Gender Equality Task Force for Lifelong Learning organised an online kick-off for its 2025 activities. The webinar was an opportunity for the members of the Task Force, including policy advisors, institutional directors, project officers, and public authorities, to discuss the initiative’s upcoming activities. 17 participants attended the meeting.