The OECD’s latest PIAAC results reveal declining literacy and widening inequality across Europe, highlighting the urgent need for lifelong and inclusive learning strategies. EAEA and EBSN call for stronger governance, increased investment, and innovative approaches to adult education to address these challenges and promote equality, social inclusion, and competitiveness.

The Gender Equality Task Force for Equality in Lifelong Learning hosted an insightful session on November 6, 2024, titled “Gender equality as a driver of well-being in educational spaces.”

Lire et Ecrire organised a seminar on digitalisation and literacy. They advocate for and work to combat illiteracy in French-speaking Belgium.

With a majority of 54% votes from the MEPs, the new Commission is ready to start its mandate led by 11 women, 16 men, and a brand new portfolio. The new Commission will take office during a period of high geopolitical tension.

EAEA organised three events during the Lifelong Learning Week 2024, ranging from enhancing the learners’ voice, to empowering educators for higher quality adult education provisions, to a holistic view of society and the family in policy-making.

In October 2024, EAEA organised the “ABC of ALE” training programme in Brussels, an introductory capacity-building workshop that delved into Adult Learning and Education (ALE) as a historic concept, movement, and transformative tool in society. The training targeted entry and mid-level professionals in the field, with the view to provide them with an overview of the concept of non-formal adult learning and education, linking it to both theory and practice.

At the beginning of November, EAEA took part in the International Adult and Continuing Education Hall of Fame (HoF) conference and its induction ceremony in the impressive settings of the University of Florence.

“We need to have the drive for everyone to get involved in it” stated Gustav Fridolin concerning sustainability and providing internal strategies in various organisations, during the first SMALEI Digital Academy Talks webinar on the environmental sustainability  of adult education institutions.

EAEA has published the 2024 edition of its annual Grundtvig Award booklet, presenting innovative projects in non-formal adult education across Europe.

EAEA calls for equitable implementation of Upskilling Pathways across Europe to ensure all adults can benefit from learning opportunities.