Continuous learning is key to personal and professional growth, especially in today’s world. That is why platforms like the EPALE play a crucial role in making education across borders a priority. Dr. Maria Brown is one of the key players committed to enhancing this mission, serving as an EPALE ambassador. 

With her extensive experience in adult education, community-based learning, and research, she actively works to promote EPALE as a vital resource for learners, educators, as well as policymakers.

In this interview, Dr. Brown sheds light on her journey as an EPALE ambassador, her passion for adult education, and the impact she aims to make.

Dr. Brown’s commitment to adult education is deeply rooted in her belief that continuous learning is essential for active citizenship. “EPALE is about resourcefulness, and adult education bears the same mission,” she emphasises. She sees adult education not just as a second chance for learners but also as a continuous process that keeps individuals informed and engaged in democratic participation.

Her role as an EPALE ambassador allows her to extend this resourcefulness beyond local borders, making use of her network across Europe to drive a "glocalised" (global and localised) approach to learning. She believes that EPALE is a powerful tool that strengthens adult education by providing access to valuable resources, research, and networking opportunities.

The vital role of adult education

When considering developments and challenges concerning artificial intelligence, climate change, and socio-economic and political transformations, Dr. Brown stresses the necessity of adult education. “It is key for the human being to stay active; physically, mentally, spiritually, and emotionally,” she states. ‘‘Staying informed and skilled is the best way to navigate socio-economic and environmental challenges sustainably’’. 

Adult education involves professional development but it is not solely that; it is also about social inclusion and empowerment. Through continuous learning, individuals can adapt better to changes, contribute meaningfully to society while also  improving their quality of life.

EPALE: A platform for collaboration and growth

One of the EPALE’s strongest aspects is the platform’s ability to connect educators, trainers, and policymakers across Europe. Dr. Brown highlights how the platform has personally benefited her by providing access to events, training, and curated lesson and research content. “I studied without a scholarship, so I appreciate the value of having resources at the click of a button, especially for those with limited financial means or time to travel,” she shares.

EPALE helps educators stay updated with high-quality, curated content, which is particularly valuable in a time where information overload is a challenge. By facilitating access to training kits, research, and expert networks, EPALE makes sure that educators are equipped to provide high-quality adult learning experiences.

Making adult education inclusive and accessible

Dr. Brown is a firm believer in the principles of sustainable development, particularly in addressing inequalities in education. She believes that to make adult education truly accessible, it must be developed with stakeholders rather than for them. “I strongly support participatory methods; when we do not work for but with the people,” she asserts.

She emphasises that collaboration with local communities, government bodies, and educators is essential to breaking down social and economic barriers to learning. By integrating lifelong learning into sustainable development frameworks, adult education can become a more inclusive and emancipatory tool.

Promoting EPALE: Strategies for engagement

As a senior lecturer at the University of Malta, Dr. Brown actively encourages her students to engage with EPALE. “I invite students to register as users, and whenever I come across an opportunity, I share it with them,” she explains.

Beyond the classroom, she leverages social media, newsletters, and her connections with organisations such as the European Society for Research on the Education of Adults (ESREA), the Commonwealth Centre for Connected Learning Foundation (3CL), and the European Cooperation in Science and Technology (COST) to spread awareness about EPALE. She also sits on various boards related to lifelong learning, using her influence to promote the platform.

Her approach is also about integrating EPALE into different networks and making it a practical resource for both professionals and learners. She also sees it as a valuable tool for identifying project partners and encouraging collaboration among adult education stakeholders.

Challenges and opportunities for adult education in Malta

One of the biggest challenges Dr. Brown identifies is the lack of professional recognition for adult educators. “They are often paid by the hour, work part-time, and are not warranted or quality-assured,” she points out. This is not just a Maltese issue but a global one, which highlights the urgent need for structural reforms in the sector.

She advocates for the professionalisation of adult educators and trainers, making sure that they receive the recognition, training, and support they deserve. She sees this as a key priority in Malta’s education strategy for 2030, which includes a pillar dedicated to this issue. “I want to support the government in delivering this; let’s be the first country to set an example for others,” she says confidently.

Looking ahead: Shaping the future of adult learning

Dr. Brown is already playing an important role in addressing these challenges through her work at the University of Malta. She coordinates undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in education and training, including a Bachelor of Arts in Adult Education and a fully online Master’s degree in Adult Education. These programmes are designed to provide flexibility and accessibility to learners, helping to professionalise the field.

By encouraging adult education at both policy and grassroots levels, she is making sure that lifelong learning remains a priority in Malta and beyond. With EPALE playing a key role in her mission, she continues to inspire and empower educators, learners, and policymakers to embrace the transformative power of adult education.

A vision for lifelong learning

Dr. Maria Brown’s work as an EPALE ambassador is a reminder to the importance of adult education in today’s world. Through her advocacy, teaching, and networking, she is helping to create a more inclusive and resourceful learning environment for adults in Malta and beyond.

Her vision for the future is clear: adult education must be recognised, professionalised, and accessible to all. With platforms like EPALE, she is confident that these goals can be achieved. As she continues to walk the talk of lifelong learning, she remains an inspiring force in the field; leading by example and empowering others to do the same.

Email: maria.brown@um.edu.mt