International Conference on Promoting Lifelong Learning in Higher Education: From institutional strategies to practical implementation

Date: 19 to 21 October 2023

Venue: Guoshun Campus, Shanghai Open University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China

From 19 to 21 October 2023, Shanghai Open University (SOU) and the UNESCO Institute for Lifelong Learning (UIL) will host an International Conference entitled ‘Promoting Lifelong Learning in Higher Education: From institutional strategies to practical implementation’ in Shanghai, People’s Republic of China.

In a world marked by rapid technological advancements, pressing climate crises, and persistent social inequalities, the need to transform education and reimagine the role of higher education has become critical. The International Conference on Promoting Lifelong Learning in Higher Education will gather more than 200 participants, including university leaders, policymakers, experts, scholars and researchers, to address these challenges by delving into innovative institutional strategies and practical implementation approaches that enable higher education institutions (HEIs) to become lifelong learning agents. With a strong focus on flexibility, inclusivity and responsiveness, the conference aims to harness the potential of HEIs to foster sustainable societies through lifelong learning, empowering them to effectively address the diverse needs of learners and meet the dynamic demands of the modern workforce and sustainability of development.

The event will place particular emphasis on the vital role of HEIs in advancing a culture of lifelong learning including reskilling and upskilling, cultivating future skills, offering flexible learning pathways, using learning technologies, promoting sustainable development and establishing robust partnerships with the private sector and community organizations. While building on the UIL/SOU research on International trends of lifelong learning in higher education, the conference will provide a further basis for future research collaboration and joint advocacy to make higher education more inclusive, diverse and sustainable.

The event is being organized in partnership with the UNESCO Multisectoral Regional Office for East Asia (UNESCO Beijing), the National Commission of the People's Republic of China for UNESCO, the International Association of Universities, and the Chinese Society of Educational Development Strategy.

Languages

The working languages of the conference will be English and Chinese, with simultaneous translation being provided.

Further information

Publication ‘International trends of lifelong learning in higher education: research report’

Publication ‘Institutional practices of implementing lifelong learning in higher education: research report’