The goal of the project is to create a strategy for continuous learning for the region of Southwest Finland (Finland Proper), as well as a regional ecosystem of continuous learning as its implementation. The project is a result of far-ranging regional collaboration and the jointly recognized need for a better coordination for the learning services aimed at the working-age population. Continuous learning is seen as a necessity for both the flexibility and competitiveness of the regional economy. A prerequisite for a flexible economy is the ability of the work force to adapt and move horizontally from one field to another in similar-level jobs, while competitiveness requires increases in productivity that presuppose the ability of the work force to move horizontally to more demanding jobs and professions. On an individual level, continuous learning is a crucial factor in reaching one’s personal potential as well as in creating social and economic well-being.

The project is built upon three themes and a total of eight work packages as follows:
A. ORIENTATION OF CONTINUOUS LEARNING
Wp 1. Working life relevance, competitiveness and employment
Wp 2. Foresight and forecasting future needs in continuous learning
Wp 3. Guidance and support in continuous learning

B. SERVICES IN CONTINUOUS LEARNING
Wp 4. Liberal adult education as a service provider
Wp 5. Vocational education as a service provider
WP 6. Institutions of higher learning as service providers
WP 7. Swedish-language continuous learning services

C. STRATEGY FOR CONTINUOUS LEARNING
WP 8. Regional ecosystem for continuous learning

The project runs from September 1st, 2023 to December 31st, 2025, and it will be carried out by the following consortium:
– The City of Turku (main partner)
– Novida – Vocational and General Upper Secondary Education and Training
– Raisio Regional Education and Training Consortium
– Turku Christian Institute
– Turku University of Applied Sciences
– Åbo Akademi University