On February 7, 2025, AONTAS hosted an insightful webinar as part of the Partner UP project, focusing on the implementation of the EU’s Upskilling Pathways initiative. The event brought together adult education experts, policymakers, and community organizations to discuss strategies for increasing participation in lifelong learning.
Aoife Crawford, Research and Policy Officer at the National Adult Literacy Agency (NALA), presented key findings from the OECD’s 2023 Survey of Adult Skills in Ireland. The data highlighted persistent challenges in literacy, numeracy, and digital skills, with 21% of adults performing at or below Level 1 in literacy and 25% in numeracy. These gaps underscore the urgent need for targeted upskilling efforts.
Discussions also explored the role of community networks in bridging skills gaps, building confidence among learners, and addressing barriers such as childcare, financial constraints, and digital literacy. The webinar emphasized the need for stronger adult learning systems and policies that support inclusive education pathways.
