In Transition From Institutionalised Adult Education System Towards Ecosystems of Lifelong Learning: A Reflection on Latvian Adult Learning Policy Transformations

Latvia’s adult education system, established in 1997, has evolved into a comprehensive strategy for lifelong learning. The Lifelong Learning Policy Framework 2007–2013 aimed to institutionalise adult education, focusing on competencies acquired through everyday learning (informal, formal, and non-formal education). The Latvian long-term development strategy 2030 implementation monitoring report in 2012 highlighted the need for future human capital development, which is crucial for building a modern and globally competitive Latvian adult learning policy. Despite lagging behind the EU average, Latvia is showing a steady increase in adult participation, with one in ten adults participating in learning and the share of adults participating in learning doubling in 2022 compared to 2014. The OECD project ‘Supporting Employers to Promote Skills Development in Latvia’ and the European Commission Technical Support projects have developed in 2021–2023 proposals for an ecosystem of support measures for employers to promote employee training. The projects assessed the current situation in Latvia, development trends, and experiences of other countries, while also considering the views of social and cooperation partners, and industry representatives. The paper appears at Latvia’s shift from institutionalised adult education to ecosystems for lifelong learning, highlighting both the opportunities and challenges that are currently faced.