Schools as Centres of Lifelong Learning for All

Many countries in the Asia Pacific region have begun to adopt a lifelong approach to learning to ensure access to education and training and future economic development. Although lifelong learning will require substantial amounts of public funds, it is important that such initiatives not be limited to developing skills and competencies for economic development, but that education be regarded as intrinsically valuable in itself. Lifelong learning efforts should maintain a relationship between three major elements: education for a more highly skilled workforce; personal development leading to a more rewarding life; and the creation of a stronger, more inclusive society. To achieve these goals, Asia Pacific countries will need to reevaluate the function of compulsory schooling to ensure that students are provided with general knowledge for cognitive development and the acquisition of learning skills. These countries will also need to reexamine the role of families in supporting learning; the relationshi