Establishing a New Framework for Lifelong Learning

Abstract

The GCC countries need to put in place new mechanisms to promote skills upgrading and the development of required competencies across the workforce. How can this be achieved? Examining the conditions that so far prevented an efficient response to the challenges of lifelong learning in the Arab world, this chapter takes stock of the issues that need to form part of a viable strategy in this area, including the importance of merit-based promotion, cross-generational collaborative learning, workplace-related competence development and adult education. It proceeds by proposing a GCC/MENA collaborative programme for professional and continuing education that takes advantage of the similar developmental challenges linking the countries of this region.