Lifelong Learning at ULiège

In a constantly changing world, lifelong learning is an essential tool for developing skills, supporting career transitions, and promoting access to knowledge at every stage of one’s career.

© G.Meuli

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ifelong Learning (LLL) has become a central issue in our contemporary societies, which are profoundly shaped by the accelerating pace of technological innovation and the rapid transformation of labor markets. Lifelong learning goes beyond the simple initial acquisition of skills during one’s youth. It is an ongoing process that accompanies individuals throughout their lives, often in response to a series of socioeconomic and technological challenges.

 
But beyond economic imperatives, lifelong learning also promotes personal fulfillment and individual autonomy. It encourages intellectual curiosity and allows everyone to redefine themselves throughout their career and even beyond it. By supporting lifelong learning, the University aims to play a fundamental role in democratizing access to knowledge, as offering lifelong learning programs helps reduce inequalities in access to education by providing everyone with the opportunity to learn at any age.
 
Furthermore, organizing lifelong learning programs requires forging close ties with businesses and various professional sectors. By collaborating with these stakeholders, the University can design training programs that address specific market needs.
 
This approach aligns with the ambitious goals of the Action Plan on the European Pillar of Social Rights : “The percentage of adults participating in training activities each year should reach at least 60% by 2030.”
 
Furthermore, university-based lifelong learning (FTLV) must ensure the recognition of the training programs offered and the validation of the skills acquired by participants. This involves, in particular, the creation of certifications recognized in the labor market and, very soon, micro-certifications that will bring even greater agility and flexibility to learners (European Recommendation on a European Approach to Micro-Certifications for Lifelong Learning and Employability, June 2022).