Launch of ‘Implementing Effective Reskilling and Upskilling Learning Programmes for Older Adults’ report
We warmly invite you to join the webinar 'Launch of ‘Implementing Effective Reskilling and Upskilling Learning Programmes for Older Adults’ report' hosted by the UNESCO Institute for Lifelong Learning (UIL) and Shanghai Open University.
Webinar Information
As societies around the world age at an unprecedented pace, the need for inclusive, responsive and high‑quality lifelong learning systems has never been greater. Older adults today are living longer and healthier lives, reshaping patterns of learning, work and social engagement across the life course. Lifelong learning – particularly opportunities for reskilling and upskilling – can create pathways for older adults to remain active in the workforce, adapt to rapidly changing labour markets, pursue entrepreneurship, or engage in meaningful voluntary and community activities. Yet barriers such as financial constraints, limited access to digital tools, and insufficiently adapted programmes prevent them from fully participating in learning and employment opportunities.
To explore how these challenges can be addressed, the UNESCO Institute for Lifelong Learning and Shanghai Open University are pleased to launch the new research report: Implementing Effective Reskilling and Upskilling Learning Programmes for Older Adults
This publication examines innovative approaches from Colombia, Japan, Singapore, Sweden and the United States of America, showcasing how institutions and stakeholders are designing effective pathways that enable older adults to reskill, upskill, and engage actively in both the labour market and their communities. The study highlights promising examples – from universities opening their doors to older learners to trade unions, NGOs, and multi-stakeholder initiatives developing flexible, tailored training opportunities.
Join our webinar to:
- Learn about key findings from the five international case studies
- Explore practical strategies for creating inclusive lifelong learning ecosystems
- Hear directly from contributors to the report, including experts and practitioners involved in programme design and implementation
- Discuss what supportive policy frameworks, strong cooperation, institutional commitment and appropriate pedagogical approaches mean in practice
- Reflect on the broader benefits of learning in later life—spanning empowerment, community engagement, well-being and dignity
Date and time
1 April 2026, 13:00-14:00h CEST
Registration
Zoom https://unesco-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Y7KVPXIbTECoEAYvacAplw
Language
English
Programme
13:00 Welcome and Introduction
Mo Wang, Senior Programme Specialist, UNESCO Institute for Lifelong Learning
13:05 Opening Remarks
- Raul Valdes Cotera, Senior Programme Coordinator, UIL
- Wei Jia, President, Shanghai Open University
Moderator: Mo Wang
13:15 Key Findings and Case Reflections
Summary of key findings: Sruthi Ranjani Vinjamuri, Consultant, UIL
Case reflections
- Olivia Hernández-Pozas – case study on The Senior University of the Universidad del Rosario, Colombia
- Robin S. Ortiz – case study on Felton Institute, United States of America
Summary of recommendations: Sruthi Ranjani Vinjamuri
Moderator: Sruthi Ranjani Vinjamuri
13:35 Discussion and Q&A with Representatives of the Case Study Author Teams
- Ma Hok Ka Carol – case study on the National Trades Union Congress, Singapore
- Yukiko Sawano – case study on Rikkyo Second Stage College at Rikkyo University, Japan
- Georgios Pavlidis – case study on Hermods AB, Sweden
- Patricia McMullin -synthesis and recommendations
Moderator: Mo Wang
13:55 Closing Remarks
- Raul Valdes Cotera, Senior Programme Coordinator, UIL
