【About Lifelong Learning】
“Lifelong learning” generally refers to all learning undertaken by people throughout their lives. This encompasses learning in various settings and opportunities, such as school education, home education, social education, cultural activities, sports activities, recreational activities, volunteer activities, corporate training, and hobbies. The term “lifelong learning society” is also used to describe a society where people can freely choose learning opportunities at any time throughout their lives, and where the results of that learning are appropriately evaluated.
Furthermore, Article 3 of the Fundamental Law of Education stipulates the principle of lifelong learning: “Society must strive to realize a system in which each citizen can learn throughout their life, at any opportunity and in any place, to cultivate their personality and lead a fulfilling life, and in which the results of such learning can be appropriately utilized.”
Based on this law, the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) is currently working to promote lifelong learning in anticipation of the 100-year life era. This includes examining measures to promote social education for new community development and encouraging working adults to relearn the knowledge and skills necessary for their occupations throughout their lives, all aimed at maximizing each individual's “potential” and “opportunities” over their lifetime, in accordance with the Third Basic Plan for the Promotion of Education. (From the White Paper on Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology)
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MAKO SEKINE
