The ETF’s first GLAD webinar of 2026 brought together policymakers, researchers and practitioners from the EU neighbourhood and beyond to examine how adult learning and education systems can be strengthened to improve participation, equity and long‑term outcomes.
Opening the event, Siria Taurelli, ETF GLAD coordinator, Levan Kvatchadze, Regional Director for Eastern Neighbours, DVV International and ETF expert Nicolas Jonas emphasised that adult learning is an essential pillar of lifelong learning, yet participation remains low worldwide and access to high‑quality provision is uneven. The webinar focused on how countries can move from fragmented initiatives towards coherent, well‑governed systems capable of delivering opportunities to all adults throughout their lives.
Professor Jan Kalenda from Tomas Bata University in the Czech Republic provided the keynote presentation, describing a 'three‑layer architecture necessary for effective adult learning systems: legislation, strategy and financing'. Drawing on two decades of comparative research, he argued that these elements must work in alignment rather than in isolation. Robust legal frameworks, he said, clarify responsibilities, recognise the diversity of learning pathways and establish entitlements.
“Strategic planning must be evidence‑based, long-term and oriented towards both participation and equity,” urged Professor Kalenda, highlighting how “sustainable financing, combining national budgets, employers and individuals, is vital to ensure continuity beyond short‑term projects.”
Common pitfalls identified however, including fragmented laws, overly aspirational strategies without implementation plans, frequent policy shifts and chronic underinvestment in essential but often invisible system functions such as guidance, data and coordination.
“System‑building is an evolving process that must be tailored to each country’s context, and that reforms work best when undertaken sequentially and consistently,” concluded Professor Kalenda.
The second part of the webinar showcased Montenegro’s recent reforms as a country example. Yasna Jovanović, Director‑General at Montenegro’s Ministry of Education, Science and Innovation, presented the country’s comprehensive overhaul of its adult education framework.
"Over the past year, Montenegro has adopted four new laws, introduced micro‑credentials, strengthened quality assurance, enhanced data collection and launched its first dedicated adult education budget line," said the Director General proudly, continuing to explain how a national strategy for 2025–2035 and a four‑year action plan aim to expand participation, improve programme quality and support vulnerable groups, including the Roma population.
Montenegro is also preparing to join the OECD’s PIAAC skills survey for the first time to enhance its evidence‑base for policymaking.
Following a lively discussion on the challenges and obstacles to enhancing adult learning, Siria Taurelli concluded the webinar with a call for "stronger coordination, sustained political commitment and greater visibility of the societal benefits of adult learning, from employability to social cohesion and civic engagement."
Further GLAD webinars will continue to support dialogue and mutual learning across ETF partner countries.
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