Results from the Adult Education Survey (AES) revealed that 46.8 per cent of persons aged 25-64 participated in education and lifelong learning during 2011.

During the reference year, 53 per cent of participants engaged in education and lifelong learning (formal, non-formal and informal learning) were men, while 47 per cent were women. The results also indicated a declining participation rate as persons grow older. This trend was observed for both sexes, with the 25-34 age group accounting for the largest participation rate and the 55-64 age group for the lowest.

Four per cent of the population aged 25-64, or 9,481 individuals, participated in formal education activities during 2011. Of these, just over 80 per cent were reading for a tertiary quali?cation. Participants in non-formal education accounted for 34 per cent of the total population aged 25-64. Collectively, these individuals undertook 109,803 learning activities, primarily in the form of courses or on-the-job training. The majority of these activities (60 per cent) were job-related.

According to the AES results, 44 per cent of the persons engaged in non-formal learning activities had a secondary level of education or lower. Out of those participating in non-formal learning, 83 per cent were employed while another 6 per cent were unemployed. A considerable share of non-formal learning was carried out through organised courses. Guided on-the-job training and workshops were also popular options.  

During 2011, 55,450 individuals were involved in informal learning activities aimed at providing further knowledge. The majority were between 35-44 years old, while 17 per cent were aged between 55-64. 

Respondents were asked to indicate the main obstacles they felt were hindering their participation in education and lifelong learning. Several individuals did not feel the need to engage in further learning activities, while family responsibilities and work schedules were also mentioned as major obstacles by respondents.

Attendance at cultural activities among participants in education and lifelong learning

More than half the participants in education and lifelong learning activities attended cultural events. These included live performances and visits to cinemas and to cultural sites, with the latter being the most popular.