Lifelong learning and skills for the future | 국외연구자료

KDI 경제교육·정보센터

Economic Information and Education Center

최신자료

Lifelong learning and skills for the future

ILO

2026.05.28

Lifelong learning is not a new concept ？ but it has never been more important. In the face of rapid technological innovation, the green transition, demographic shifts and evolving patterns of globalization and work, the ability to keep learning and adapting is a critical foundation for inclusion and resilience. This report argues that lifelong learning should be elevated as a strategic policy priority ？ not just to increase productivity and facilitate sustainable growth, but as a systemic enabler of personal and societal advancement, equity and decent work. However, despite the growing policy focus, there remains a striking gap in comprehensive, up-to-date research that captures its full scope. Much existing evidence is scattered and overemphasizes initial formal education, overlooking the diverse ways people acquire and apply skills throughout life. Learning takes place in many settings ？ in the classroom, at work, in communities and families ？ often through non-formal, informal or non-traditional means. Yet participation beyond the classroom lags and remains uneven, and the systems that support it are often fragmented, under-resourced and poorly coordinated. Drawing from new survey and institutional data, big data analysis and impact evaluations, this report offers a comprehensive road map for countries to transform lifelong learning systems and build inclusive and resilient labour markets. The report is organized in three parts: Part 1 defines lifelong learning and maps its development across education, work and society; Part 2 examines which skills matter most for better employment outcomes and adaptability; Part 3 outlines the policy conditions for performing systems and effective skills programmes. Taken together, the findings offer a powerful call to action: inclusive, high-quality and responsive lifelong learning must be at the centre of labour market policy ？ and growth and development strategies more broadly ？ in an era of fundamental change.

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