Adult learning and education (ALE) in community settings – be it formal, non-formal or informal – plays a crucial role in ensuring access to lifelong learning for all. Such learning commonly takes place in locally embedded ALE institutions that serve as key entry points for participation, inclusion, and community development. Local authorities are central to the provision of ALE and can act in various capacities – as enablers, supporters, coordinators, managers or advocates. Drawing on the experience of DVV International and German Adult Education Centres (Volkshochschulen), this paper highlights effective practices and ways to strengthen local engagement in ALE policy and practice.
Authors: Bettina Brand, Heribert Hinzen, Ruth Sarrazin
Expert Paper: ALE as a responsibility of local authorities (PDF, English, accessible)