How can municipalities create stronger opportunities for lifelong learning? How can local authorities facilitate more inclusive and accessible learning opportunities for adults that align with the needs of the community?
Our new expert paper, "Adult Learning and Education (ALE) as a Responsibility of Local Authorities," explores the role of local authorities as essential actors in developing effective lifelong learning systems. Drawing on the experience of DVV International and the German Adult Education Centres (Volkshochschulen), the paper highlights practical approaches to strengthening local governance, partnerships, and sustainable investment in ALE.
The publication demonstrates how municipalities can support adult learning through strategic planning, local coordination, accessible learning infrastructure, and collaboration with civil society and education providers.
The paper presents inspiring examples from Germany, Moldova, Uganda, Ecuador, and Cambodia, illustrating how local authorities have successfully expanded learning opportunities and strengthened community development.
This expert paper was developed within the Continental Exchange Project 'Europe', which is financially supported by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).
If you would like to learn more, the expert paper is available here: Adult learning and education as a responsibility of local authorities