Encouraging lifelong learning : the Malaysian context

• Main Author: Mansor Fadzil
• Format: Conference or Workshop Item
• Published: 2014
• Subjects: LC5201 Education extension. Adult education. Continuing education
• Online Access: http://library.oum.edu.my/repository/1001/1/library-document-1001.pdf; http://library.oum.edu.my/repository/1001/
• Institution: Open University Malaysia

The unveiling of the Blueprint on Enculturation of Lifelong Learning for Malaysia (2011-2020) in November 2011 demonstrated Malaysia’s commitment to inculcate lifelong learning as an important component in the nation’s education agenda. Three years on, the implementation of the Blueprint is still an ongoing process that would benefit from greater participation from all Malaysians. At this juncture, encouraging lifelong learning – through a comprehensive set of strategies – will be crucial in order to ensure the success and long-term impact of the Blueprint. This will require participation and contribution from all education stakeholders, especially the Government, higher education institutions and various training providers. For Malaysia to achieve a developed nation status by 2020, the role of education is an undeniable imperative, especially so at the tertiary and post-tertiary levels where continued learning is becoming an increasingly important element to ensure a knowledgeable and skilful workforce and consequently, a more robust and competitive economy. Thus, encouraging lifelong learning must be acknowledged as an important step in achieving Malaysia’s national aspirations. This paper will describe several crucial strategies that can contribute to this national initiative. These strategies will take into account the roles, responsibilities, capacities and potential of different education stakeholders. All-inclusive participation from all Malaysians can certainly bring many positive outcomes for lifelong learning and ultimately, for the nation’s continued growth and development. (Abstract by author)