The new National Adult Learners Forum wants input from older students

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Adult learners in Ireland now have a say in the policy decisions that affect them. AONTAS, the National Adult Learning Organisation, held the first meeting of the new National Adult Learners Forum earlier this year. The meeting, held at the Mansion House in Dublin, was attended by eighty learners from across Ireland, who came together to discuss their achievements and the challenges in further education. Attendees were nominated to join the forum by their local adult education groups. Also in attendance were representatives from community education, the Youthreach programme, the Back to Education Initiative and the Vocational Training Opportunities Scheme.

Niamh O’Reilly, CEO of AONTAS, said that the National Adult Learners Forum allowed adult learners to share their experiences, which in turn could influence government policy.

“This new forum gives adult learners an opportunity to share their views at national level and to help influence policy. We know that a learner’s own personal experience provides important information that can be used to improve services and policies. Adults returning to education must be consulted about the type of education and training they need, as well as the supports they require to complete the courses on offer,” she said.

Speakers at the forum included the Lord Mayor of Dublin, Críona Ní Dhálaigh, and Fiona Hartley of SOLAS.

Fiona Hartley of SOLAS said that adult learners contributions were highly important.

“AONTAS has previously consulted with learners to find out about their experience of these services and, because of this, SOLAS has tasked them with the important job of creating this Forum. It is an exciting new development as now learners will be placed at the heart of the FET service. Adult learners’ contribution at today’s event is hugely valued and it will have an impact on the decisions that are made in the future.”