Quality Matters: Strengthening the Quality Assurance of Adult Education and Training
In a rapidly changing world, lifelong learning has become more than a choice—it’s a necessity. As governments and organisations ramp up investments in adult education and training (AET) to support up-skilling and re-skilling, the question isn’t just how much funding is allocated but whether these systems truly deliver. Financial incentives like subsidies and individual learning accounts (ILAs) can widen access, but they alone are not enough. Robust quality assurance is the backbone of effective AET systems, ensuring programmes meet high standards, align with job market needs, and provide meaningful outcomes for learners. Without strong mechanisms to monitor and improve quality, investments risk being wasted, and opportunities squandered. This report examines how prioritising quality assurance can transform lifelong learning into an impactful driver of individual growth and societal progress. Discover how we can build systems that empower learners and shape a resilient future.
Key insights
For more information, contact:
Andrew Bell, Head of OECD Skills Strategy projects and Deputy Head of the OECD Centre for Skills, Andrew.Bell@oecd.org
Ricardo Espinoza, Policy Analyst, OECD Centre for Skills, Ricardo.Espinoza@oecd.org
