Lifelong Learning Programmes for Sustainable  Development

Selva Ranee  Subramaniam,

Lifelong Learning Programmes for Sustainable Development

Abstract:

Lifelong learning is a significant process in this millennium to cope with revolutionary knowledge and skills. This study explored the concept of life long learning programmes implemented in the Malaysian Community Colleges, in terms of the goals, types and features. The four-month study which was conducted involved two randomly selected community colleges. Quantitative data involved questionnaires and qualitative data was obtained through interviews and inspection of documents. The findings showed that the vision for life long learning is well documented in the nation’s policies. Democratization of lifelong learning programmes is evident in its open entry participation to any healthy Malaysian citizen. Thus, this flexible entry offered enables everyone to participate in an effort for nation-building. The profile of the participants revealed that the age, gender, occupational strata and qualification was not a barrier for participation. The variety of courses, including specialized courses offered for a nominal fee in the community colleges, attracted participation from members of the community.