On the 4th and 5th of October, the National Dialogue Platform for Adult Learning and Education (ALE) was successfully held at the Galleface Hotel in Colombo, Sri Lanka. This significant event brought together over 40 stakeholders from diverse sectors, including academia, civil society, NGOs, the private sector, and government organizations. The aim was to foster dialogue, share insights, and develop a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing adult learning and lifelong learning (LLL) in the Island.
The dialogue commenced with a session by Ms. Sonja Belete, the designated Regional Director for the South Asian Region of DVV International. Her presentation outlined a proposed vision for ALE in Sri Lanka, emphasizing the importance of internationalization in educational practices. Ms. Belete articulated how this vision aligns with DVV International’s commitment to promoting adult education globally.
Throughout the two-day event, various themes emerged that were critical to the advancement of ALE in Sri Lanka. One of the primary focuses was the need to unveil the landscape of adult learning and lifelong learning in the country. Participants engaged in discussions about the current state of adult education and the various challenges associated with its integration and implementation. These discussions highlighted the necessity for a cohesive approach to adult education, ensuring that it meets the diverse needs of the population.
A recurring theme in the dialogue was the gaps in defining key terminologies related to adult education in Sri Lanka. Many stakeholders emphasized the need to revisit and clearly define terms such as ALE, Non-Formal Education (NFE), and Lifelong Learning (LLL). This clarification is crucial for developing a shared understanding among stakeholders and creating effective educational policies and programs.
Another critical topic of discussion was the policy gaps and requirements for policy reforms in the realm of adult learning. Participants pointed out the existing barriers within current policies that hinder the effective implementation of adult education initiatives. They called for a comprehensive review of existing policies and the development of new strategies that align with the changing educational landscape.
The dialogue was enriched by the contributions of esteemed speakers. Professor Manjula Vithanapathirana, Chair of Educational Psychology at the University of Colombo, and Dr. Vinya Ariyaratne, Honorary President of the Sarvodaya Shramadana Movement of Sri Lanka, delivered key speeches.
The National Dialogue Platform on ALE in Sri Lanka served as an essential step towards developing a robust framework for adult learning and lifelong learning. The discussions not only unveiled the current challenges but also sparked ideas for collaborative solutions among stakeholders.