The support group of wb-web, the DIE platform for teachers in adult and continuing education, has published a position paper entitled ‘Strengthening continuing education – ensuring social cohesion: a shared responsibility’. The paper emphasises the central role of adult and continuing education in times of social change and calls for it to be more firmly anchored in education policy.
Bonn/Germany, February 18, 2025. The digital transformation, demographic change and the transition to a climate-neutral society are challenges that are putting social cohesion to the test. In this context, adult and continuing education is becoming increasingly important. It enables people at every stage of their lives to actively participate in social, economic and political change and thus strengthens society’s resilience.
In view of the complex changes, the importance of this area of education is constantly growing. It is therefore crucial to place adult and continuing education clearly at the centre of education policy in order to secure and further expand its valuable contribution in the long term. Only through targeted support and structural improvements can this area of education realise its full potential and have a positive impact on social cohesion in the long term.
The signatories of the position paper call on politicians to
– Recognise the importance of adult and continuing education for society as a whole: Beyond professional qualifications, it contributes to political and cultural education as well as social participation.
– Long-term and reliable funding: A sustainable educational landscape requires planning security beyond legislative periods.
– Improving the framework conditions for continuing education providers: High-quality education programmes require good working conditions and attractive employment models.
– Access to continuing education for all population groups: Educational programmes must be accessible regardless of age, origin or economic situation.
‘Adult and continuing education makes a decisive contribution to mastering the major transformation processes of our time. We need a clear political commitment to strengthen this area of education in the long term,‘ says Dr Lars Kilian, spokesperson for the supporters’ group. Without a strong political commitment, existing educational programmes could not be further developed and adapted to the changing demands of society.
The position paper is now available for download on the wb-web platform. Stakeholders in adult and continuing education and other supporters are invited to support the initiative and disseminate the position paper.
wb-web is a platform for teachers in adult and continuing education. It offers practical information, materials and networking opportunities to promote the quality and professionalism of continuing education. The platform is operated by the German Institute for Adult Education – Leibniz Centre for Lifelong Learning (DIE) and is aimed at anyone working in adult education or interested in educational topics.
Further information:
(https://wb-web.de/aktuelles/positionspapier-weiterbildung-staerken-gesellschaftlichen-zusammenhalt-sichern-eine-gemeinsame-verantwortung.html)
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svklimkin, Pixabay