Minister Haughey launches ‘Future of Lifelong Learning’

Posted on 05/10/09 by Seán Haughey Seán Haughey TD, Minister for Lifelong Learning, today launched ‘The Future of Lifelong Learning'.
The launch took place at the Clock Tower Conference Centre, Department of Education and Science Headquarters in Marlborough Street, Dublin.
The event is being hosted by Fastrack to Information Technology (FIT).
The purpose of the launch is to showcase EU - funded projects in the areas of ICT and Adult Education and to share the outcomes from projects funded under the Vocational Education and Training and Adult Education elements of the European Commission's Lifelong Learning Programme.
The event is being attended by members of the Vocational Education Committees, community organisations involved in adult learning, commercial ICT equipment organisations, migrant associations, senior citizen associations and education bodies involved in continuous professional development.
‘Information Technology is now an integral part of modern life and in order to enhance peoples' employment prospects, a good working knowledge of computers and associated software packages is not just important, but essential if we are to achieve the knowledge-based economy that we strive for Ireland.
‘Providing people with the opportunity to become competent in the use of modern technology is an important aspect of Vocational Education and Training in Ireland,' said Minister Haughey.
The projects are funded directly by the European Commission and cover such themes as:

o developing a set of tools to help teachers in their professional development in the use of ICT;

o developing a model for Adult Education providers for attracting migrant students, engaging with them and delivering initial adult education programmes to them;

o establishing an innovative learning tool, in a form of a social network website, designed for senior citizens recalling life experiences both past and present.

The FIT programmes enhance people's employment prospects and open new doors to a world of information at their fingertips. Some FIT programmes include an element of work experience, which is naturally advantageous in assisting students to apply their learning to a working environment.
Project partners and beneficiaries outlined their experiences of participating in projects and were informed of funding opportunities under the European Commission Education and Training programmes.
The FIT programmes enhance people's employment prospects and open new doors to a world of information at their fingertips. Some FIT programmes include an element of work experience, which is naturally advantageous in assisting students to apply their learning to a working environment.
‘Lifelong Learning provides learners with more self-confidence and promotes a more inclusive society and active citizenship.
‘We must continue to encourage people into learning, and engage continuously in Lifelong Learning.
‘It is fantastic to see how participation in education can transform people, not least in increasing their self-esteem.
‘Adults make the decision to return to education for a variety of reasons, whether it is to assist in the workplace, seize new opportunities or enable parents to engage more in their children's education.
‘I found the projects of participants here today most impressive and would like to wish you every success for the future,'concluded Minister Haughey.