17.12.2020

Improving outreach and access to adult learning in times of COVID-19

The experiences of EAEA members clearly demonstrate that outreach and access have only become more difficult during the COVID-19 pandemic. Self-isolation and social distancing, digital exclusion, precarious employment situations and a general feeling of uncertainty have mounted new barriers that keep adults from learning. Once again, those who lose out are adults most in need of better (basic) skills.  Statement on improving outreach and access to adult learning in times of COVID-19 concludes EAEA’s thematic work in 2020.

Whether it’s improving wellbeing, wages, self-confidence or social inclusion, adult education can help to promote equality in European society; this however is dependent on participation, and especially participation from those who could benefit most from developing their skills. Those least likely to access adult education are often the ones that need it most. For many adults with low skills, education is characterised by stigma and discomfort, so outreach and access programmes can help not only in developing the confidence of these adults, but also in providing them with skills or qualifications to develop their employability and careers.

As the experiences of EAEA members clearly demonstrate, outreach and access have only become more difficult during the COVID-19 pandemic. Self-isolation and social distancing, digital exclusion, precarious employment situations and a general feeling of uncertainty have mounted new barriers that keep adults from learning. Once again, those who lose out are adults most in need of better (basic) skills.  

Consult our newly published statement on improving outreach and access to adult learning in times of COVID-19, which concludes EAEA’s thematic work in 2020.

01.04.2025 financing

EAEA stands strong against cuts in ALE funding  

On March 31 2025, EAEA joined NGOs in Brussels in the nation-wide strike against planned government austerity measures. The peaceful demonstration was in solidarity with the national strike organised against the measures proposed by the new Belgian government.  

28.03.2025 digital literacy

Improving education environments in detention and care institutions

Since the end of 2024, EAEA has been a partner in the DigiFusE project. DigiFusE supports the development of digital readiness and resilience in controlled learning environments, such as closed detention and care institutions, to improve their educational environment.

27.03.2025 Democracy

A Union of Skills that puts the needs and ambitions of adult learners at the centre

The new European Commission, led by Ursula von der Leyen, proposes a Union of Skills as part of its ambitious 100-day plan. The European Association for the Education of Adults (EAEA) represents the European non-formal adult learning and education sector with thousands of providers and millions of learners. We welcome this initiative but stress that skills must be understood holistically - supporting individuals, communities, and society, not just the labour market.