There are skills shortages in a range of occupations across Australia and internationally and this has been exacerbated by the pandemic. While Governments, industry and educational institutions are working on solutions, it is vital to ensure that underrepresented groups in society are not left behind in accessing all levels of education, vocational education and training and Adult Learning and Education (ALE). This event will feature an opening address on the importance of inclusive and effective learning environments for learning cities/local governments. The City of Hume will showcase an innovation ecosystem Hume Multiversity – a partnership between business, education, and the community that provides a range of programmes and services especially targeting diverse groups. The City of Melton will showcase a Council/Industry partnership, WorkSafe White Card training workshops aimed at participants from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

Learning for and in the workplace is a key building block of a UNESCO Learning City or Region. In addition, CONFINTEA VII Marrakech Framework for Action for Adult Learning and Education (ALE) committed to creating flexible learning pathways within and between types of work. Recognition of prior learning, the validation and accreditation of non-formal and informal learning should include all sections of the population.

Read Dr. Leone Wheeler’s piece on the webinar here.