Brussels, 31/08/2011 (Agence Europe) - On 31 August, the European University Association (EUA) published a new report analysing the various factors allowing an effective policy of life-long learning in European universities. Fully engaging in a leadership strategy seems to be the keystone in success for the universities, according to the study, which makes a number of recommendations.
Life-long learning has gradually assumed vital importance for universities over the last ten years. Economic problems and demographic change have brought about increased pressure on universities to develop coherent strategies to widen access and increase the participation rates for life-long learning. The report, Engaging in Lifelong Learning: shaping inclusive and responsive University Strategies (commonly known as project SIRUS), is the result of work carried out over two years by 29 universities in 18 different European countries, with the support of the European Union. By sharing their experiences, these universities have sought to define the factors behind successful life-long learning policies, as part of the “European Universities' Charter for Life-Long Learning”. This charter, which was adopted in 2008 by the participating European universities, makes recommendations for supporting the universities of Europe in developing their specific role as institutions for life-long learning (EUROPE 9776). “The project results indicate that, while national financial and legal frameworks play an important role for universities, the single most important push factor for developing successful LLL has been the active engagement of university leadership in creating inclusive and responsible university strategies”, stresses one of the authors of the report, Hanne Smidt.
According to the study, the universities must engage progressively, in a three-stage process: (1) a period of adaptation; (2) an “organisational” period, during which the strategies are implemented; (3) a cultural stage, during which the universities will adopt a new mindset, a culture of life-long learning and a shared vision across the whole institution. However, factors are needed to support the process. In particular, two are vital: funding and legislation. Yet only 12 of the 18 countries represented by the universities which took part in the report feel that adequate legislation is in place and just four countries said that the necessary funds were available. Lastly, most of the universities are critical of their respective governments, which they feel are slow to respond to the recommendations put forward by the Charter for Life-Long Learning. The report is available at http://www.eua.be/pubs/Engaging_in_Lifelong_Learning.pdf . (I.L./transl.fl)