Accurately Addressing Lifelong Learning: Insights from the CATALISI 6th Webinar

Accurately Addressing Lifelong Learning: Insights from the CATALISI 6th Webinar

On 4th of October, the CATALISI project hosted a webinar titled “Accurately Addressing Lifelong Learning,” featuring key contributions from Prof. Ass. Dr. Florim Gallopeni and Prof. Ass. Dr. Bujar Gallopeni. Both experts delved into the pressing importance of lifelong learning (LLL) in today’s dynamic professional landscape and highlighted practical approaches to fostering continuous education, emphasizing the necessity of LLL for personal, professional, and societal growth.

The necessity of lifelong learning in the modern world

 

Prof. Florim Gallopeni stressed that lifelong learning is no longer optional but a critical part of personal and professional development. In a world that is rapidly evolving due to technological advancements and shifts in societal needs, formal education alone cannot equip individuals with the tools required for long-term success.

Gallopeni defined lifelong learning as “a self-initiated education focused on personal growth,”. He noted that beyond degrees and certificates, experiential learning through internships, continuous training programs, and self-guided education is vital for remaining competitive in the workforce.

 

A key theme from the webinar was the importance of transversal skills, which extend beyond technical knowledge and are critical for career adaptability. Gallopeni explained that skills such as communication, emotional intelligence, problem-solving, and critical thinking allow individuals to thrive in various professional settings. He emphasized that these abilities are not only beneficial for personal career advancement but also for contributing to societal innovation and problem-solving.

 

Lifelong learning in Higher Education: A focus on flexibility

Prof. Bujar Gallopeni shifted the discussion towards the role of higher education institutions in promoting lifelong learning. As industries evolve rapidly, universities are now tasked with offering flexible, shorter learning formats, such as certification programs and micro-credentials, to address the widening skills gap. Formal education systems, while necessary, often cannot keep pace with the technological and economic shifts occurring globally. Therefore, lifelong learning programs serve as a dynamic solution for upskilling.

 

One of the most discussed topics during the webinar was the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), a process that acknowledges skills and competencies gained through nonformal education or work experience. According to Dr. Bujar Gallopeni, many institutions struggle to implement effective RPL mechanisms, which creates barriers for individuals seeking to transition into new career roles or educational pathways.

RPL enables learners to receive credit for prior achievements, allowing them to bypass redundant coursework and focus on developing new skills. However, the lack of standardized processes for recognizing nonformal education makes this a challenging area for many universities, which limits opportunities for professionals looking to build on their prior experiences.

Inclusivity and equity are also central to the lifelong learning conversation. Gallopeni highlighted the importance of designing LLL programs that target marginalized groups, ensuring that learning opportunities are accessible to all, including those who may face barriers to traditional education. The role of universities in fostering social responsibility through these programs cannot be understated, and a concerted effort is required to make LLL inclusive for all social strata.

Universities must monitor program delivery, learning outcomes, and alignment with industry needs to ensure that lifelong learners gain valuable, practical skills. Institutions are encouraged to adopt both internal and external quality assurance procedures to continually evaluate and enhance their LLL offerings. This guarantees that learners receive an education that is relevant, timely, and applicable in real-world contexts.

The rise of microcredentials offers an exciting pathway for lifelong learners. These short, focused qualifications provide learners with specific skills in areas such as digital literacy, project management, or data analysis. They are particularly beneficial for professionals who want to upskill without committing to lengthy degree programs. Furthermore, microcredentials are often stackable, allowing learners to accumulate them over time, eventually leading to larger qualifications.

For those who missed the live webinar, there’s good news. The recording is available on the CATALISI Learning Hub repository. This resource will provide valuable insights and guidance for HEIs looking to enhance their role in local innovation systems.

Stay tuned to the CATALISI Learning Hub for more updates and resources.

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