Grundtvig Funding: Lifelong Learning for Adults

Grundtvig was a part of the European Union’s Lifelong Learning Programme (LLP) from 2007 to 2013, focused specifically on adult education. It aimed to enhance the quality and accessibility of adult learning across Europe, enabling individuals to improve their skills, knowledge, and competences throughout their lives.

Key Objectives

The core objectives of Grundtvig funding were multifaceted. Primarily, it sought to support the development of innovative educational practices and promote cooperation between organizations involved in adult education. It aimed to increase participation in adult learning, especially among disadvantaged groups and older people. Additionally, Grundtvig emphasized the importance of recognizing and validating non-formal and informal learning.

Funding Opportunities

Grundtvig provided funding for a range of activities, including:

• Learning Partnerships: These projects encouraged cooperation between organizations from different European countries to develop and exchange best practices in adult education. They focused on themes such as literacy, numeracy, ICT skills, active citizenship, and social inclusion.
• Mobility Actions: Individuals involved in adult education, such as teachers, trainers, and adult learners, could receive funding for mobility grants to visit partner organizations in other countries. These visits allowed for professional development, knowledge exchange, and networking.
• Projects: Larger-scale projects tackled specific challenges in adult education, developing new methodologies, tools, and resources. These projects often involved several partner organizations and aimed to create a lasting impact on the field.
• Networks: Grundtvig supported the establishment and operation of European networks of organizations working in adult education. These networks facilitated the exchange of information, the development of common strategies, and the promotion of European collaboration.
• Workshops and Seminars: Funding was available to organize workshops and seminars on relevant topics in adult education, bringing together practitioners, researchers, and policymakers.

Impact and Legacy

The Grundtvig programme had a significant impact on adult education in Europe. It fostered a culture of innovation, collaboration, and lifelong learning. Hundreds of projects were funded, involving thousands of individuals and organizations. The program helped to raise awareness of the importance of adult education and to improve the quality of provision. It also contributed to the development of a European network of adult education professionals.

While the Lifelong Learning Programme and Grundtvig concluded in 2013, its legacy continues through the subsequent Erasmus+ programme. Erasmus+ continues to support adult education through various actions, building on the successes and lessons learned from Grundtvig. The principles of lifelong learning, international cooperation, and inclusion remain central to European education policy.