Embracing a Culture of Lifelong Learning: Contribution to the Futures of Education Initiative

This report, a contribution to UNESCO's Futures of Education initiative, reflects on the potential contribution of lifelong learning both in transforming the field of education and in creating a more sustainable, healthy and inclusive future. Drawing on the insights of 12 distinguished experts from different disciplines and countries, the report presents a compelling vision for lifelong learning and the values and principles that must underpin it. It calls on the international community to acknowledge the social and private dimensions of education, and to recognize lifelong learning as a new human right. Realizing this vision, it argues, requires adopting a transdisciplinary approach that can effectively grasp the complex, multidimensional nature of the challenges faced by humanity. The report outlines the main features of the ‘enabling environment’ needed to make lifelong learning the governing principle of education policy and to offer people opportunities to learn throughout life, whatever their background or context. It concludes with a set of key messages, complemented by specific action points and a discussion of selected policy measures.