Capacity Building Programme for the Staff of Local Municipalities

The workshop targeted representatives from 14 municipalities across Georgia, with participants including local government staff working in the areas of education, social affairs, and community engagement. The participants were selected from municipalities where DVV-supported Adult Learning and Education centers are active, ensuring local relevance and connection to the ongoing work of the centers. A total of 28 individuals participated in the three-day event, which was held on June 23–25, 2025, in the city of Gori. The workshop aimed to enhance the professional skills and competencies of municipal representatives to help ensure systemic support for Adult Learning and Education (ALE) at the local level. The programme focused on improving communication with donor organizations, partner institutions, and local communities; analyzing educational and socio-economic challenges such as limited access to lifelong learning opportunities and high unemployment; and deepening understanding of the role of ALE in fostering personal development and strengthening local economies. Participants were introduced to the concept and key principles of adult education, as well as international best practices—particularly from Germany—regarding ALE systems, governance, and funding. A variety of interactive methods were used throughout the training, including presentations, group work, simulation exercises, thematic analysis, and problem-based learning. Activities included mapping local educational needs, evaluating existing municipal resources, exploring the needs of target social groups, and developing strategies for integrating ALE components into municipal programmes. Special emphasis was placed on how to advocate for ALE within municipal leadership and on identifying areas for future cooperation. The workshop concluded with a reflective evaluation, where participants confirmed that the training had significantly enhanced their understanding of ALE and expressed commitment to applying the knowledge in their communities. The event served as an important step toward promoting inclusive, community-oriented education policies and strengthening the role of municipalities in supporting lifelong learning in Georgia.