The Impact and Comparison of Adult Education and Lifelong Learning on the Economy and Development of Developed and Developing Countries

The Impact and Comparison of Adult Education and Lifelong Learning on the Economy and Development of Developed and Developing Countries
Adult education and lifelong learning are of great importance for the development of societies. These learning processes are not limited to schools but also encompass the knowledge, skills, and experiences individuals acquire throughout their professional and personal lives. They contribute to the integration of individuals into society and ensure their ongoing interaction with it throughout their lives. Adult education and lifelong learning are also crucial for the development of countries. This development can be examined from economic, educational, and social perspectives. In this research, we will focus on the financial aspect.
Adult education and lifelong learning play vital roles in increasing countries' economic competitiveness, developing employment, and improving the labor market. Based on the research titled "Lifelong Learning as a Factor in the Country’s Competitiveness and Innovative Potential within the Framework of Sustainable Development," published in 2023, we will explore the investments made by both developed and developing countries to increase participation rates in lifelong learning, the effects of these investments, and the advantages of lifelong learning.
1.Adult Education and Life Learning Participation Rate
In developed countries, the participation rate in lifelong learning is quite high. This rate reaches figures such as 40%, on the other hand, in developing countries, the contribution of participation to the level of the economy is quite evident. Because participation is quite low at a rate of 20%. This shows how much economic development is affected.
2. Investments to Increase Adult Education and Lifelong Learning Participation Rates
2.1 Investments in Developed Countries
The research was conducted with a focus on Sweden, Austria, and Switzerland.
a.Government-Supported Programs: Scholarships and grants for adult education and professional development.
b.Technology Investments: Online education platforms.
c.Research and Development: Development of innovative learning methods.
2.2 Investments in Developing Countries
The research focused on Ukraine and South Africa.
a.International Support: Funding from organizations like UNESCO and the European Union.
b.Community-Based Programs: Local-level educational initiatives.
c.Basic Infrastructure Development: Programs aimed at increasing literacy rates.
3. Economic Impacts of Adult Education and Lifelong Learning
3.1 Impact on Developed Countries
In developed countries, support and investments in adult education and lifelong learning have resulted in increased income levels for individuals. Moreover, these efforts have been observed to contribute to the countries’ economic development. Adult labor forces have been created in high-tech industries, leading to increased employment and higher participation of the adult population in new professional fields.
3.2 Impact on Developing Countries
In developing countries, adult education and lifelong learning have facilitated transitions to new sectors.Basic vocational training programs have contributed to employment; however, these programs are often dependent on external funding, leading to some shortcomings.
4. Advantages of Lifelong Learning in Developed Countries
Support for research and development has led to the emergence of knowledge-based economies. Countries have achieved leadership in global competitiveness by owning innovative technologies.
5. Shortcomings in Developing Countries
There is a lack of infrastructure in education. Financial issues arise due to dependence on foreign economies, as there is a shortage of national resources. There are also gaps in access to digital platforms. Skilled individuals often migrate to developed countries for better opportunities.
6.Changes in Data by Year
In 2016-2017, changes were observed in both groups in lifelong learning participation. While an increase was observed in developing countries in these years, a decrease was observed in developed countries. The reason for this was that developing countries realized the importance of society in economic development and wanted to increase participation by receiving aid from foreign countries. On the other hand, developed countries aimed to protect their potential between these years, but some decreases were seen. Of course, these rates changed in the coming years and opposite fluctuations were seen in both groups with the integration of technology into the world.
Conclusion
Adult education and lifelong learning play a critical role in enhancing economic development and innovation potential in both developed and developing countries. In an ever-changing world, the importance of technology continues to grow, and countries must prepare their societies for these changes. "Finding ways to improve their skills and professional reorientation due to technological changes and globalization will become a vital necessity for them and for ensuring the country’s competitiveness [Sustainability 2023, 15, 9968]." However, developing countries (Ukraine, South Africa, and India) face challenges in lifelong learning due to economic limitations and insufficient public awareness. "Human capital is 70–80% of national wealth in developed countries and about 30% in developing countries [Sustainability 2023, 15, 9968]." On the other hand, the increased development levels in developed countries are partly due to the importance they place on lifelong learning. Through the awareness they create in their societies and the support they provide in their professional lives, they guide individuals to new fields. Their efforts in using and developing technology have led to the creation of new professional areas. This shows that while developed countries continue to lead in the advantages provided by lifelong learning, developing countries are encouraged to increase international aid and partnerships in this field.
REFERENCES
Kuzior, A., Krawczyk, D., Onopriienko, K., Petrushenko, Y., Onopriienko, I., & Onopriienko, V. (2023). Lifelong learning as a factor in the country’s competitiveness and innovative potential within the framework of sustainable development. Sustainability, 15(13), 9968.