Significant country differences in adult learning - Issue number 44/2009 - Products Statistics in Focus

More than a third of the EU population between 25-64 years participate in formal or non-formal education and training. There are significant country differences in participation rates according to results from the first Adult Education survey. Young people participate more and there are minor differences between males and females. A large majority participate in non-formal education and training and most are job-related. The main reasons for participation in non-formal education and training are to do a better job and improve career prospects. Employers and non-formal educational institutions are the most significant providers of non-formal education and training. About 60% of employed participants are sponsored fully or partly by the employers. Nearly two thirds of the population do not participate in formal or non-formal education and training. The two most important obstacles to participation in education and training are work schedules and family responsibilities.