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.

28.11.2023 financing

Decreasing funding levels - and yet expecting miracles?

Recent reports from EAEA’s members reveal that Adult Learning and Education is facing considerable financial cuts in many European countries. Notably, Sweden and Finland which are known for their traditionally strong support of non-formal ALE, are now facing severe cuts.

27.11.2023 cooperation

Connecting research, policy and practice: a new collaboration brings EAEA and ESREA closer together

A memorandum of understanding, signed last summer by EAEA and the European Society for Research on the Education of Adults (ESREA), aims to strengthen the collaboration between the two organisations. EAEA’s Gina Ebner and ESREA’s Marcella Milana reflect on the past and future activities that brought both networks closer.

21.11.2023 advocacy

We need skills for the labour market - and beyond!

EAEA welcomes the great interest that the European Year of Skills (EYS) has brought to skills and ALE, as we believe that this area is of enormous importance for the future of Europe. Six months into the thematic year, it is time to take stock, shedding light on the connection between skills and work – and looking at how we can go beyond skills for the labour market.