DVV International, in cooperation with the European Association for the Education of Adults (EAEA), organized the Regional Academy for Adult Learning and Education, bringing together representatives from six partner countries in the region of Southeast Europe and the Caucasus: Armenia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Kosovo, Moldova, and Ukraine.
Participants from Kosovo included Ms. Merita Shala, project coordinator at DVV International, Mr. Arbijan Qakolli, director at the Local Youth Action Council in Peja, and Mr. Arbër Hoxha, activist from the NGO Hareja.
The main goal of the academy was to empower young professionals in the field of Adult Learning and Education (ALE) through quality training, the promotion of cooperation and regional networking, and the development of concrete advocacy plans. The academy also aimed to build capacities for the sustainable and long-term development of the ALE sector.
During the training, participants reflected on their motivation and engagement in the field, sharing personal experiences. Through interactive sessions and group work, they discussed the concept of non-formal adult education, key principles of inclusion, flexibility, and innovative and creative approaches based on adult learners’ needs and inclusivity.
A particular focus was also placed on the role of ALE in fostering critical thinking, dialogue, and civic activism, creating important spaces for democratic participation and strengthening social cohesion. Democracy must be learned through experience, dialogue, and reflection, and adult education plays a vital role in shaping active, informed, and engaged citizens.
A key component of the Academy focused on policymaking and advocacy for Adult Learning and Education (ALE). Participants analyzed existing policies in Europe and beyond, discussing current policy priorities in the field of learning. The sessions highlighted how these policies support lifelong learning, skills development, and social inclusion, as well as how various stakeholders can engage with and benefit from them.
Throughout the program, participants had the opportunity to deepen their understanding of non-formal adult education, analyze and identify priorities, opportunities, and challenges faced by the sector in different contexts, reflect on the multidimensional goals of ALE, and promote inclusiveness and equality in education.