“Creating a knowledge society” is an entirely justified claim to be made on the 60th anniversary of the majority of AECs in Slovenia. In his opening address, the Minister for Education, Science and Sport emphasises the important role of lifelong learning in the education system. More than 60 years ago, the so-called workers’ universities enabled employees to obtain education. As they evolved, they transformed into organisations delivering the development of basic skills, the intergenerational transfer of knowledge, the acquisition of professions, and lifelong learning.
Prof Dr Ana Krajnc, who is actively involved in the development of adult education in the region and wider area, expressed her view on the history of this type of education and learning. In her address, she gave a brief account of the history of awareness-raising and informing about the importance of acquiring and retaining knowledge.
In the introduction, the AECs’ role in the changing circumstances was also discussed by the President of the Association of AEC of Slovenia, Bojan Hajdinjak, MSc. He stressed the importance of active participation and the social criticism by all involved, in order to co-create the future.
The central part of the publication features a historical overview of the development of AECs, their importance in the local environment, a comparison of Slovenian institutions with German adult education centres (Volkshochschulen), and demographic change as a challenge for their further development. 22 Slovenian AECs showcase their good practices and various successful projects.
The final part of the collection was prepared by Katja Dovžak, MSc, from Higher Vocational and Adult Education Department at the MESS, Andrej Sotošek, MSc, Director of the SIAE, and Ibrahim Kasabji, who learned Slovenian at the Maribor AEC and gained motivation for further education.
The contributions strengthen the belief that AECs are organisations that adapt to social changes most quickly and intensively. This is clearly confirmed by the number of satisfied users. The fact is that whoever once seeks knowledge here, stays on the path of lifelong learning. Browse through the online version (in Slovenian).
Ana Peklenik (ana.peklenik@acs.si), SIAE