The second consultative meeting in relation to the preparation of the Lifelong Learning Strategy 2016-2020, took place on 28th November 2016 gathering project experts and relevant stakeholders in Hotel Arka in Skopje to discuss current situation in the sector and directions for its future development.
The Lifelong Learning Strategy 2016-2020 is one of the key documents envisaged under the auspices of the EU funded project “Enhancing Lifelong Learning through Modernizing the Vocational Education and Training and Adult Education Systems”, that is being implemented by the British Council and its consortium partners.
Ms. Mariana Matache, project’s Key Expert for Adult Education and Lifelong Learning, in her opening remarks provided details of where the project stands so far, and how the lifelong learning component will contribute to the overall efforts for advancement in the area.
“Two reports are already available with regards to the institutional set-up and the linkages between organizations involved in the diversity of lifelong learning, including the legal framework. The second document is the Training Needs Assessment for the concerned institutions, and an analysis of the potentials in raising the capacity of training recipients,” – Ms. Matache said.
In a very engaging presentation Asst. Prof. Dr. Elena Rizova, President of the Council for Adult Education, looked at the concept and the definition of lifelong learning, how it can be implemented, what role could have for the future – and what path is needed to reach there.
Prof. Dr. Heribert Hinzen, the Non-key Expert for Lifelong Learning, engaged by the project, drew examples from theory and practice of lifelong learning in European countries. He also referred to the documents being recently adopted and declared at international level. One of them is focused on the dedication to “Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education, and provide lifelong learning opportunities for all”- part of the Sustainable Development Goals by the United Nations.
With the group work and the succeeded discussion, this workshop provided ample opportunities for the leading stakeholders - Ministry of Education and Science, Ministry of Local Self Government, the Vocational Training Center, the Adult Education Center, the Open Workers Universities, and representatives of several other institutions - to provide additional insights and information on the objectives and challenges that should be considered with the national Lifelong Learning Strategy 2016-2020. The participants also agreed on next steps and the work plan for its development.