UNESCO Applauds Indonesia as Finest in Promoting Lifelong Learning

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Chair of the Governing Board UNESCO Institute for Lifelong Learning Daniel Baril applauded Indonesia as the best example in its endeavors to promote lifelong learning.

"Indonesia is a very good choice to host this conference, as the country has been showing the proper ways to promote inclusive learning for all," Daniel stated during a press conference at the Inclusive Lifelong Learning Conference (ILCC) held in Badung, Bali on Monday, July 3, 2023.

Daniel remarked that Indonesia's Kartu Pekerja (Pre-Employment Card) is a fine example as it has been providing vast benefits to around 17 million people and helps a plethora of people seek and get jobs since its conception in 2020.

He emphasized that education is a universal right of all people indiscriminately, as provided under Article 26 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

"Including the right to learn regardless of age. It should be noted that the educational journey does not end in schools or even higher education," he added.

According to Daniel, establishing a culture of lifelong learning shall not stop at acknowledging this fundamental right, but also individually and as a collective prepare themselves to face a crucial transition of this age.

He mentioned that the world is ever-evolving, marked by fast technological advancements such as artificial intelligence or AI, labor market volatility, climate change, and demographic shifts. "These developments have made lifelong learning more important than ever before," Daniel stated.

Thus, UNESCO extended its appreciation to the government of Indonesia for its cooperation in holding the conference.

Airlangga Hartarto Inaugurated the Conference

Previously, Coordinating Minister of Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartanto officiated the Inclusive Lifelong Learning Conference (ILLC) 2023.

"It is an honor for Indonesia to host the Bali Inclusive Lifelong Learning Conference with UNESCO Institute for Lifelong Learning," he remarked in the video greeting for the event in Badung, Bali, on Monday.

The Minister pointed out the importance of lifelong learning, either for individuals or the society as a whole.

Airlangga also stated that lifelong learning is a powerful tool to empower every individual around the world to face impending global threats such as climate change, demographic shifts, and labor market volatility.

"Lifelong learning also plays a central role in equipping individuals with the needed knowledge and skill to fully benefit from technological advancements," he added. Technological advancements include ones driven by artificial intelligence.

In this disruptive era, the key to development lies in the ability of individuals to adapt their skills, reskill, and upskill. "These things can be achieved with lifelong learning," Airlangga emphasized.

Responding to these challenges, Indonesia along with the UNESCO Institute of Lifelong Learning initiated the ILLC 2023. This event is held in Bali, from July 3 to July 6, 2023, and will be attended by more than 300 participants from 40 countries.

The Minister of Economic Affairs, Airlangga Hartarto (on behalf of the government of Indonesia) proudly launches the #ImALifelongLearner campaign, in partnership with UNESCO. "Let's use this campaign to emphasize that the right to learn surpasses all ages and backgrounds," he stated.

ANTARA | NAJLA NUR FAUZIYAH

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