Boosting lifelong learning for all

Many of us do not participate in learning after leaving school or higher education, and of those who do, how much education and skills they already have is a determinant factor, raising critical questions about both education equity and workforce preparedness.

OECD data show that about 4 out of 10 highly educated adults participate in formal or on-the-job training, while about 8 of 10 people with low levels of education do not take part. Workers with low skills are also less likely to participate in such training and more likely to work in sectors being transformed by automation and digitalisation, that is, in jobs where they will need to develop new skills now and in the future.

The COVID-19 pandemic has also had an impact, with lockdowns reducing the number of hours spent in on-the-job training by nearly 20%. As we move into the recovery, it is vital to encourage a lifelong learning mindset in children and young people as well as to match adult learning with the skill needs of new emerging sectors and industries.

See more: Learning for Life