Greece

  • Greece has a long and rich history of adult education, which is met by recent emerging policies on lifelong learning. Nevertheless, participation in adult learning remains relatively low, with only 4.5%. Greece is on its way to validate more non-formal learning approaches, which could also increase the recognition of adult education and motivate more learners to engage in continuing education.


Greece country reports


Greece 2023

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  • Sole focus on adult learning for employment neglects Greece’s societal issues

    Adult education policies in Greece tend to focus on upskilling and vocational training, with limited attention to broader societal needs, according to EAEA’s members DAFNI KEK and the Hellenic Adult Education Association report. Lack of funding continues to hurt the development of inclusive ALE programmes.

    There have been no significant changes in ALE policies in Greece during 2022/2023. Yet, funding remains insufficient to meet the learning needs of the adult population. In fact, according to EAEA’s members, most people cannot afford to participate in ALE. Participation of learners and civil society in decision-making processes also remains below standards.

    Funding sources for ALE in Greece:

    • Project funding
    • Programme funding
    • Fees paid by individuals
    • Contribution paid by employers
    • Vouchers
    • Donations and other philanthropic funding

    Despite challenges, EAEA’s members lead innovative ALE projects

    While the focus of government-sponsored programmes remains on vocational skills and employability, EAEA’s members successfully run projects addressing major societal challenges. For example, Dafni Kek has implemented several initiatives on the inclusion of migrants, the green transition and gender equality.

    Key recommendations to improve adult learning and education

    • Involve CSO's in the decision-making process in a structured way, promoting transparency and democratic participation.
    • Empower municipalities to run ALE programmes tailored to local needs.
    • Develop a comprehensive national strategy for ALE.
    • Shift the focus from purely vocational-oriented skills to skills related to democratic participation, diversity, critical thinking and life skills.

Greece 2022

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Greece 2021

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Greece 2020

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2019

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Learner stories from Greece

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EAEA members view

General situation of adult education
neutral face has stayed the same in 2023
Funding situation of adult education
coin pile with arrow pointing slightly up has slightly improved in 2023

Participation in adult education

% of persons aged 25-64
3.5% participation rate last 4 weeks (European Labour Survey 2021)
16.7% participation rate last 12 months (European Adult Education Survey 2016)