UNESCO Calls Indonesia A Pilot Country To Improve Community Skills

Chair of the Governing Board of the UNESCO Institute for Lifelong Learning (ILCC) Daniel Baril (right). (Photo: Theresia Agatha/VOI)

BALI - The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) said that Indonesia has become a pilot country for increasing people's skills through the Pre-Employment Card Program which was launched in 2020.

"Indonesia is an excellent choice for the Inclusive Lifelong Learning Conference (ILLC) conference because it is an example of how to promote inclusive learning for all," said Chair of the Governing Board of the UNESCO Institute for Lifelong Learning (ILCC) Daniel Baril in Bali, Monday, July 3.

Baril said the Indonesian government's Pre-Employment Card program had provided retraining and skills upgrading opportunities for 17 million people, as well as bringing many previously unemployed people to work.

"This is really a great example," he said.

He considers that the Pre-Employment program that has been launched by Indonesia is in line with the spirit of building a lifelong learning culture, so it is very important to make a meaningful contribution to shaping the society of a country and lead a fulfilling life.

"Building a culture of lifelong learning not only recognizes this basic right, but also equips us collectively and individually to undergo the important transitions of our time," he said.

Baril said, with the adoption of the Marrakech Framework for Action at the Seventh International Conference on Adult Education (CONFINTEA VII) in Marrakech in 2022, more than 140 UNESCO Member States are committed to aligning the vision and right to lifelong learning into reality.

"UNESCO Member States made strong promises at various events, including the World Conference on Early Childhood Care and Education in Tashkent, the World Conference on Higher Education in Barcelona, and most importantly the Transforming Education Summit in New York," he said.

By convening the ILCC international conference, continued Baril, this has demonstrated a shared determination to prioritize and transform education at all stages of life, underscoring the global recognition of the importance of education in shaping a sustainable and equitable future.

"Now is the right time to turn commitments into action! We are here at this conference to further discuss inclusive policies, supported by adequate funding, and implement effective programs that empower individuals through learning, regardless of their background or age," he added.

For your information, the ILCC event itself will be held on July 3-6 in the Nusa Dua area, Bali, and will be attended by around 300 participants from 73 member countries.

This event was held without using the state budget.