​

​

Message from the President - President Suwithida Charungkaittikul

​​

Editorial - Heribert Hinzen and Balázs Németh

​​​

Articles:

​​

​Learner in the Center

​​

Fostering Value Formation through Lifelong Learning in Higher Education: 

Strategies for Youth and Adults

Diana Antoci

Abstract

The flux of changes in today’s world – marked by technological acceleration, socio-cultural shifts, and increasing global interdependence – requires individuals to continuously adapt not only in terms of skills and knowledge, but also in their system of values. In such a dynamic context, value formation emerges as a lifelong process, essential for guiding ethical decision-making, responsible citizenship, and sustainable action. Higher education plays a critical role in this process, serving as a platform for the development of both professional competencies and personal integrity. Learning is no longer confined to the early stages of life; it extends across the lifespan, encompassing multiple transitions, roles, and responsibilities.

Keywords: Ethical decision making, sustainable development, continuing professional training, value-based learning, framework and model

​

The Duality of Adult Learning and Education Policy in Sub-Saharan Africa: Merits and Demerits

Idowu Biao

Abstract

The Africa that was birthed after colonialism was dual namely, Anglophone and Francophone. Anglophone Africa has embraced the scientific study of adult education in addition to its practice. Francophone Africa that is yet to tow this path is here encouraged to do so.

Keywords: Adult education policy; Anglophone Africa; Francophone Africa.

​

Adult Learning and Education (ALE) for Older Adults: U3A Models in East Asia

Thomas Kuan

Abstract

Universities of the Third Age (U3As) provide older adults with opportunities to engage in lifelong learning, stay current with digital innovations, and adapt to social change. Rooted in a community-centred, peer-led approach, U3As foster personal growth, social connection, and active participation in society through collaborative, meaningful, and accessible learning experiences.

​Keywords: Older learners, Universities of the Third Age; artificial Intelligence (AI); conversational learning

​

Exploring the Landscape of Adult Learner Success:

The Interplay of Motivation, Satisfaction, and Persistence

Naima Wells

 

Abstract

Adults are a vital and growing undergraduate demographic, yet their unique needs are often underserved. This study explored the interplay between satisfaction, motivation, and persistence among 166 adult learners. Findings revealed that motivation and satisfaction are key predictors of persistence, highlighting the need for actionable, supportive institutional strategies.

Keywords: Adult learners, persistence, motivation, higher education, student satisfaction

​

Supporting Adult Learners in Higher Education

                                                                                     Amina Isanović Hadžiomerović

 

Abstract

Adult learners have become more present within the higher education landscape during the recent decades. They bring a wealth of personal and professional experience exhibiting diverse needs and expectations in the education process. This paper draws attention to the institutional support needed in higher education specifically for adult students.

Keywords: Educational support, socio-economic backgrounds, previous educational attainment, professional status, hybrid course

​

​Professionalisation and Institutionalisation

​

The Adult Education Academy: A Joint Module Advancing Internationalisation and 

Professionalisation in the Field of Adult Education and Lifelong Learning

Laura Leibinger, Julia Saam, Frank Schenk

Abstract

​As an international module of the Julius-Maximilians Universität Würzburg, the Adult Education Academy “International and Comparative Studies in Adult Education and Lifelong Learning” welcomes around 100 participants from over 20 countries each year. Focusing on analysing international policies and theories in adult education and lifelong learning as well as using a comparative research approach, the Adult Education Academy module has been a success story over the last 13 years when it comes to bridging theory and practice in adult education.

Keywords: Comparative adult learning and education, lifelong learning, internationalisation, higher education, theory-practice transfer

​

The International Master in Adult Education for Social Change (IMAESC)

Bonnie Slade

Abstract

This article explores the impact of the International Master in Adult Education for Social Change (IMAESC), an Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Degree, on global adult learning and education. Drawing on programme data, alumni outcomes, and international collaboration, it highlights how higher education supports inclusive, intercultural, and socially responsive adult education. The programme underscores the transformative potential of international funded programmes in higher education for adult learning and education for social justice

Keywords: Higher education, Adult Education for social change, Erasmus Mundus Joint Master degree, global mobility

​

Universities Supporting ALE in Jamaica through

Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition and Micro-Credentials 

Shermaine Barrett

Abstract

The acceleration of technological advancements, the rapid change in nearly every industry and the major shifts in nature of work are key factors that are driving an increased interest in continuing education. Within this context, to remain relevant universities once primarily focused on traditional higher education (HE) models centered on degree attainment for young adults, are increasingly repositioning themselves as key drivers of lifelong learning.

Keywords: Prior learning assessment and recognition; micro-credentials; tertiary education; Jamaica

​

The Pivotal Role of Chulalalongkorn University's Department of Lifelong Education in

Advancing Adult Learning and Education in Thailand

Suwithida Charungkaittikul, Wirathep Pathumchareonwattana

Abstract

This article examines the multifaceted contributions of the Department of Lifelong Education (DLE) at Chulalongkorn University to the advancement of Adult Learning and Education (ALE) in Thailand. It highlights the Department's diverse roles and discusses emerging directions for higher education in enhancing Thailand's lifelong learning landscape.

Keywords: Adult learning, lifelong education, Chulalongkorn University, Thailand, adult education policy

​​​

Empowering Adult Educators for the Digital Futures

Zen Chan

 

Abstract

As digital technologies reshape work and learning, the urgency to professionalize adult educators and support their continuous development has never been greater. A recent series of studies from the Institute for Adult Learning Singapore sheds light on how professionalization of adult teachers and educators can be a key catalyst in equipping adult educators with the competencies, industry alignment, and digital agility needed for the future.

Keywords: Professionalization, human resources, artificial intelligence, industry, practiceships

​

Teacher Training for Literacy and Adult Education in Brazil: The Beginning of a New Era? 

Timothy D. Ireland

Abstract

Brazil continues to face the challenge of relatively low levels of completion of compulsory education but has never implemented a National Policy for the training of adult educators. The Institutions of Higher Education which have been noticeably absent from this field of training have now been charged with the responsibility of implementing the new National Pact launched by the Ministry of Education in 2024

Keywords: Adult literacy and education; National Pact; training programmes

​

The Role of the University in the Professional Development of Adult Educators
and the Development of Adult Education in Slovenia

Borut Mikulec

Abstract

​This manuscript presents the role of the university in the professional development of adult educators and the development of adult education in the historical and contemporary context in Slovenia. In addition, the latest developments of universities introducing lifelong learning as a fourth pillar are briefly discussed.

​​Keywords: Adult education, professional development of adult educators, Slovenia, university

​

​

Research and Development

​

ALE in Higher Education: Fighting for the World We Want

Shirley Walters

Abstract

​Universities are important platforms for resistance and narrative power.  I draw on my years at University of Western Cape (UWC), South Africa, to illustrate the role of radical traditions of adult learning and education, working in ‘in-between-spaces’ of higher education institutions, to ‘fight for a world we want’.

​​Keywords: In-between-spaces, radical adult learning and education, authoritarianism, struggle for democracy

​​

The DECODE Knowledge Project: Co-Construction, Decolonization, and

Transformation Producing Actionable Knowledge for the Challenges of our Times 

Budd Hall, Saanya Sodhi, Rajesh Tandon

Abstract

IThe DECODE Knowledge Project, led by Dr. Rajesh Tandon and Dr. Budd Hall, tackles global climate and sustainability issues through community-based participatory research. It centers Indigenous, local, and experiential knowledge often ignored by mainstream academia. Using decolonial and gender-sensitive approaches, six global case studies demonstrate how arts-based, land-based, and dialogic methods enhance resilience. DECODE emphasizes co-created knowledge, women’s leadership, and ethical partnerships. As it enters its next phase, the project champions community knowledge in building a just and sustainable future.

Keywords: Indigenous Knowledge, decolonization, knowledge co-construction, higher education transformation, climate resilience

 

UNESCO Chair of Global Adult Education at the University of Malta: Promoting ALE on Global Scale

Peter Mayo

Abstract

This article sheds light on the work carried out during the first cycle of the UNESCO Chair in Global Adult Education which the present writer holds. It reveals accomplishments in resuscitating the Adult Education Flagship Zjournal Convergence.  An International Adult Education Journal, in editing a book series on ' International Issues in Adult Education,in running the University of Malta’s first online MA course in Adult Education, in developing numerous webfests on various adult educators and momentous events in the field, and in running three annual seminars and two biennial conferences, the latter two both held at the University of Malta.

Keywords: Webfests, conferences, journal, book series, seminars.

​

Lifelong Learning Legal and Policy Frameworks and their Implementation in 

Cambodia, Lao PDR, Thailand, and Vietnam 

Margarete Sachs-Isreal

Abstract

This article provides the main findings of the upcoming study of DVV’s International Regional Office in Southeast Asia on ‘Implementation of Lifelong Learning: Case Studies of Cambodia, Lao PDR, Thailand and Vietnam’ to be published in the Autum of 2025, with a focus on the comparative analysis of the four country case studies and policy recommendations. The study demonstrates that the four countries have shown strong political commitment to advancing lifelong learning through targeted laws, policies, governance and local initiatives, though they are at different stages and face ongoing challenges.

Keywords: Lifelong learning (LLL) laws and policies, NFE and ALE, flexible learning pathways, LLL implementation.

​​

Navigating AI Integration in Higher Education: Insights from Focus Groups on Ethics, Pedagogy, and Lifelong Learning  

George Zarifis

Abstract

This article draws from national focus groups conducted across Europe as part of the IDEAL project to explore how educators and students perceive artificial intelligence in higher education. Through an interpretive lens, it traces ethical, pedagogical, and lifelong learning concerns, offering grounded insights on the cultural and institutional dimensions of AI integration.

Keywords: Artificial intelligence, higher education, ethics, lifelong learning​​​​

​​​

Higher Education Developing Adult Learning and Education through

Learning Cities as Advanced Forms of Learning Ecosystems

Balázs Németh

Abstract

In the Age of learning, universities have a key role in the development of smart and creative urban communities in the frames of learning cities. This paper will analyse the changing roles of universities in enhancing learning cities as part of mission in adult and lifelong learning so as to raise participation of citizens in effective knowledge transfer.  We will reflect upon the roles of learning cities in building the learning culture/infrastructure to develop skills for life. The key message will be connected to balancing in between individual and community claims to support urban environments having to change for sustainable, resilient and more equitable ways of cohabitation

Keywords: Learning communities, collaboration, knowledge transfer, ecosystems, civic learning

​

​​​​

Book Announcement:

A new book that ​examines the transition from Higher Education to Adult Lifelong Learning at an international level.

                                         Transition From Pedagogy to Andragogy: An International Perspective

                                                                                 Edited by Leslie A. Cordie​

​

Welcome New PIMA Members​​​​