Details
- Publication date
- 17 November 2025
- Author
- Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development
- Industrial Ecosystem
- Cross-sectoral
Description
Results from the 2023 Survey of Adult Skills seem to indicate that participation in adult learning is stagnating across OECD countries, with notable declines despite its importance for adapting to economic and technological change. Formal education plays a diminishing role, while short, compliance-based non-formal training dominates the current landscape. Barriers like time and cost persist, especially for women and younger adults, and, while employer support remains crucial, public investment continues to focus on initial education.
The report argues that paradigm shift is needed—toward integrated, flexible, and inclusive lifelong learning policies that equip adults with transferable skills for evolving labor market demands.
Date of original publication: 08/07/2025