Ireland has achieved a significant milestone in adult education, with the lifelong learning participation rate reaching 16% in the fourth quarter of 2024. This surpasses the National Skills Strategy target of 15% set for 2025, as reported by SOLAS, the Further Education and Training Authority.
The increase reflects a growing commitment among adults aged 25 to 64 to engage in both formal and non-formal learning activities. Nearly 458,000 individuals participated in lifelong learning during this period, marking the highest number recorded to date. This growth indicates a robust recovery and expansion of adult education following the declines experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Ireland's current participation rate places it slightly above the European Union average of 14%, highlighting the country's dedication to fostering continuous learning and skill development among its adult population.
Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, James Lawless TD, emphasized the importance of accessible learning opportunities:
"It is great to see so many adults in Ireland participating in lifelong learning. Our commitment is to ensure that everyone, no matter what their previous level of education, or age, has access to lifelong learning opportunities that fit with people’s personal and work commitments, and that they are encouraged to participate throughout their lives."
Andrew Brownlee, CEO of SOLAS, also commented on the positive trend:
“We are delighted to see an increase in the lifelong learning participation rate in Ireland for the second year in a row. This reflects the significant growth that we have seen across the Further Education and Training (FET) sector with the learner base expanding by a quarter since the end of 2022.”
Read the full report here: Lifelong learning amongst adults in Ireland
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