13,000 applied for Lifelong Learning courses in 2013

Applications open for Life-Long Learning courses • Video by Ray Attard

Over 13,000 persons applied for the Lifelong Learning courses offered to adults during 2013/2014, attending a huge variety of classes ranging from language lessons to arts and drama.

Visiting the Lifelong Learning stand in Republic Street this morning, Education Minister Evarist Bartolo encouraged adults to take up language courses.

“We will be increasing the variety of programmes offered and we will be improving the method of how languages are taught. Instead of the usual teaching method, the programme would focus more on the use of language during any particular situation. The focus will be on improving the ability to talk and understanding the language,” he said.

The rate of students who opt out of learning a language as a third subject is of 40%, a rate which Bartolo insists is too high.

“Encouraging adults to learn Italian, French, German or Spanish will hopefully positively influence students to follow suit,” he added.

The applications for the new courses open today until 5 September. Courses offered by the Lifelong Learning include languages, computer use, vocational and educational training, arts, drama and music.

Core competence subjects – Maths, English, Maltese and Science – are offered for free. Elderly applicants do not pay for their first course. Other fees vary between €11.65 and €46.

“The most popular courses are in vocational and education training. There has also been a sudden increase of interest in Spanish,” Daniela Vella, assistant director at Lifelong Learning said.

The courses are open to adults aged between 16 and 64. The most popular age bracket is of those aged over 45.

The Education Minister encouraged those who never attended these courses to take up a class, and for those who have attended one in the past to take up the subject at a higher level.

“The continuous development of the individual on a personal basis is of huge importance for society. Education and the skills-building are indeed a lifelong ambition and not just for the young,” he said.

During this scholastic year, around 110 subjects are available at different levels across seven Adult Learning Centres, 40 Local Council  and 17 NGO and Community Centres.

For full list of courses please visit: www.lifelonglearning.gov.mt