Adult education in Cyprus

Abstract

The role of adult and non-formal education is increasingly recognised as important and useful. Formal education (primary, secondary and higher) cannot be expected to supply society with all the skills it requires. On the other hand, formal education cannot cater for hobbies and other individual special interests. The demands of modern life on education are becoming increasingly great and more varied. A well organised and properly functioning system of adult education contributes to the cultural, social and economic development of the citizens and as such it constitutes a means to the solution of the various problems faced by the individuals and the societies in general. The need for a better quality of life and the continual education and re-education are fundamental rights of the citizens. The combating of educational inequalities and the certainty that knowledge helps the people to participate in life actively and effectively are the basic principles on which non-formal and adult education is based and, in this sense, enforces the formal educational system by providing more flexible procedures and programmes. In this project I am referring to definitions concerning the term "adult education" and to the reasons for which this kind of education is necessary. I am describing the programmes and courses offered to adults by various bodies in my country (governmental, semi-governmental and voluntary), as well as by the Adult Education Centres of the Ministry of Education and Culture. Subsequently, I am identifying advantages, problems and difficulties and I am making recommendations which I believe that can be helpful for the whole situation to be improved.