Today, Sri Lanka is at a critical stage in its economic and social development like many developing countries. Investing in people is essential to being competitive in a globalized world. Hence, lifelong learning has become a major factor for countries seeking to create a skilled, adaptive, and resilient workforce.
Learning occurs throughout life. Education cannot be seen as a temporary phase of preparation of life, but must be viewed as part of life. People can no longer view the end of compulsory education as a relief or value freedom from learning more than the continuation of intended learning.
Importance of lifelong learning
“Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever”. This inspiring quote emphasizes the importance of continuous learning in keeping our minds sharp and adaptable. The benefits of lifelong learning go beyond just acquiring job specific skills. Formal and informal education plays a transformative role in developing people and also the societies.
Lifelong learning broadens our understanding of the world and ourselves, increasing the curiosity for knowledge, critical thinking, and self-confidence. An educated and skilled workforce is the backbone of a healthy economy of a country. As Nelson Mandela stated, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world”. Thus, Sri Lanka also needs this weapon of lifelong learning to compete with the changing world.
A culture of learning within organizations and individuals contributes to build the Sri Lankan economy. A skilled and knowledgeable workforce is more productive. Employees who are constantly learning and upskilling themselves are better equipped to handle complex jobs effectively and efficiently. If the country has a well educated, competent and skilled workforce there’s no doubt that the country will develop day by day.
Exploring career paths and opportunities
Discovering your passions and understanding your unique skills is the foundation for building a rewarding career. You can narrow down potential career paths that align with your personal goals and values by identifying your strengths and weaknesses. So, lifelong learning is essential for career planning, as it enables you to adapt to changing environment, acquire new skills, and pursue new opportunities. A clear career development plan, supported by continuous learning, keeps you focused, motivated, and achieving long term success. Thus, lifelong learning is an essential factor that helps you to build a career path that is both fulfilling and sustainable.
Assume you have entrepreneurial spirit or a passion for innovation and you are considering starting your own business or contributing to innovative projects. Let’s consider two individuals starting their own business, one who invests in learning and another who hasn’t. The individual who invests in learning, continuously develops entrepreneurial skills, gains valuable insights regarding market trends, financial management, and innovative strategies. This knowledge allows them to make informed decisions, adapt to challenges, and ultimately drive growth and success. The person who starts a business without proper knowledge may lack the foresight and skills needed to navigate obstacles, resulting in poor management and limited growth. Thus, individuals who prioritize continuous learning are more successful in their career ladder and in their lives as they gain the knowledge and skills needed to adapt to changing environments and seize new opportunities.
Social impact of lifelong learning
Lifelong learning enhances the quality of life by providing individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to sustain themselves in a dynamic society. Learning empowers people to adapt to changing job markets, fostering economic independence. Also, individuals from low income backgrounds can access new career paths by acquiring relevant skills, thereby breaking the cycle of poverty.Lifelong learning also fosters equality in society by making education more accessible to people from all socioeconomic levels, allowing them to grow professionally and personally. It narrows the gap between privileged and underprivileged communities by providing equal opportunities for self-improvement and economic mobility. In a diverse society like Sri Lanka, lifelong learning contributes to social connection by encouraging inclusivity and enabling people to participate fully in the economic and social development of the country. Through this, Sri Lanka can build a more prosperous future for the entire nation of the country.
Challenges in promoting a culture of lifelong learning
Lifelong learning has emerged as one of the major challenges for the worldwide knowledge society of the future. We can identify significant challenges in promoting lifelong learning in Sri Lanka. Unequal access to education, particularly in rural areas, affordability concerns, cultural and social factors discourage many individuals from pursuing further education.
In many rural areas of Sri Lanka, limited access to quality education, technology, and skill development creates disparities in income and employment opportunities when compared to urban regions. The gap between urban and rural areas can be minimized by offering continuous education programs focused on the specific needs of rural communities.Another major challenge is the limited availability of educational resources in rural regions. Investing in internet infrastructure and establishing community learning centers can increase accessibility. Also, affordable, subsidized educational programs can address the financial barriers faced by low income individuals. Government initiatives, public-private partnerships, and employer support can provide scholarships or low-interest loans. Cultural and social norms, such as gender bias and the perception that education is solely for the young, can discourage the intention for education. Also, balancing work, family, and education can be difficult for many adults. Offering flexible, part-time, or modular learning programs can help to address this issue.
By addressing these challenges, Sri Lanka can create an inclusive lifelong learning system that promotes equal opportunities, fosters economic development, and empowers its people to reach their full potential.
Open University as a lifelong learning partner
The inclusive admission policies of the Open University of Sri Lanka allow individuals with diverse backgrounds to pursue higher education, fostering social mobility and career opportunities. The Open University allows you to learn at your own pace and convenience, balancing your work and personal commitments. Thus, you all can engage in learning leading to greater success in your career and personal life.
OUSL provides you with a wide range of online and distance education programs from various socio-economic backgrounds. This esteemed university gives the chance to pursue higher education, regardless of geographic location, age or time constraints. The Open University has challenged the misconception that education is solely for the young by offering flexible and accessible learning opportunities for adults of all ages. By promoting flexible learning opportunities and supporting diverse learners, OUSL contributes significantly to building a sustainable culture of lifelong learning in Sri Lanka. As the Open University has regional centres and study centres all over the country, even those who reside in rural areas also can engage in continuous learning and become successful in their lives.
As Sri Lanka strives towards a more prosperous future, the journey of learning must never end. ‘The day you stop learning is the day you stop growing.’ Thus, let’s embrace lifelong learning, as through this path we can unlock our fullest potential, individually and as a nation.
