STRATEGIC PLAN - Kementerian Pengajian Tinggi

CRITICAL AGENDA PROJECTLIFELONG LEARNINGIntroductionThe phenomenon of globalisation will continue to impact and challenge countries all over the world,especially a developing country like Malaysia. To overcome the challenges of globalisation, Malaysiansneed to arrange strategies and take proactive measures to empower themselves to be competitiveand progressive by developing the needed quality, skills and knowledge.Lifelong Learning (LLL) is a major learning channel for an individual, in line with the national educationsystem from pre-school, primary school, secondary school, pre-university and tertiary education. Infact, other than the national basic education and tertiary education, LLL is the third pillar in humancapital development which stresses on developing knowledgeable and highly skilled individuals. TheLLL Programme is a national priority in the development of human capital. Based on the Blueprint onEnculturation of Lifelong Learning for Malaysia 2011-2020, the focus is given to participants between theages of 15 to 64 since this group of people are still active and productive to promote and developthe national economy.With regards to national needs, LLL is defined as all learning experienced by an individual aged 15years and above except for professional students. Professional students are those who participate infull-time education either in schools, colleges, training institutions or universities with the aim of enteringthe job market for the first time.The projected population of Malaysia is about 34.2 million people by 2020, and 26.2 million of thosewill be employees between the ages of 15 and 64 years. Therefore, the potential and demand for LLLprogrammes extended to the masses are clearly for the purpose of increasing skills and knowledgewhich in turn can contribute towards value and economic development of the country. The target setin the Blueprint on Enculturation of Lifelong Learning for Malaysia is for 50% of the population between15 and 64 years to have the opportunity to participate in LLL self-improvement programmes by theyear 2020. At least 13.1 million people will benefit from this effort.LLL implemented by HEIs employ various approaches such as distance learning, flexible education,recognition of work experience (recognition of prior learning), and short courses for improving knowledgeand skills.The basis for the establishment and the importance of the Lifelong Learning Critical Agenda Project isto cultivate LLL and empower LLL programmes and activities through:110The National Higher Education Action Plan 2011 - 2015