Driving forward the European Union's framework on lifelong learning in Malta : an analysis of the implementation measures taken

Abstract

Today the EU is facing a slowdown in economic growth with rising unemployment levels which is negatively affecting the competitiveness of the Union's Member States. In order to sustain growth it is important for the EU to invest in human capital since it is a powerful engine for economic growth. Lifelong Learning has been identified as a pivotal pillar in this strategy of search for growth. Therefore the EU initiated a process to consolidate its policy in this regard. The objective of this study is to identify and analyse measures implemented in Malta within the EU's framework on Lifelong Learning. The EU's policy framework and the direction it provides to its Member States has firstly been analysed and thereafter the programmes and measures carried out by the main actors involved in introducing a LLL culture in Malta was delved into. From the research carried out on the EU' s Lifelong Learning framework, it results that the EU has made remarkable progress in developing an appropriate framework for the implementation of LLL measures in Member States. At the local level, this study suggests that in Malta the importance of Lifelong Learning has filtered through the decision making of policy makers. However, whilst substantial reforms which fulfil the EU's obligations in line with the EU's Priority Actions have been initiated, the country still does not have a finalised Strategic Plan on Lifelong Learning. Effective and efficient actions which are co-ordinated by the Government and the other Social Partners should steer the Maltese economy to contribute towards the Lisbon Council Conclusions (2000) and make Malta a model competitive and learning economy, for the common good and benefit of present and future generations.