This time, the EAAL Forum took a slightly different form
The EYS officially concluded last May. Since then, the EC, in cooperation with partners, has been preparing the final report on its progress and effects. It is expected shortly. The recently published Communication on The Union of Skills is the legacy of EYS and its substantial upgrade. In it, the EC, among other things, advocates for providing opportunities for ongoing upskilling and reskilling of adults. Learning, education and training to acquire skills, competencies and knowledge are gaining importance at an accelerated pace – at all stages of life. Unfortunately, there is a strong emphasis on training for work and less on other roles we have as individuals and members of the community.
On 26 February, we engaged in discussions with EAAL Forum guests at the SIAE and online, addressing some skills for life. We placed them in both the present and the future, highlighting their interconnectedness. The meeting was designed as a series of expert dialogues from different fields, aware that these areas are not isolated. Skills acquired can, therefore, intertwine and function in synergy. We asked the guests about their current efforts, plans and mutual cooperation.
The forum was attended by 120 people – in person, via Zoom or through connected channels where a live broadcast was available. The purpose of this article is to describe the event to some extent – but not too much – better to watch the recording available on the event’s website (in Slovenian).
A private and professional tandem
Dr Nataša Potočnik, Director of the SIAE, and Gregor Mohorčič, MSc, Director of the Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Vocational Education and Training (CPI), were the first pair to answer the above questions (and some in between). They spoke about their past experiences that led them to their current positions and their ongoing efforts. They touched upon the interconnectedness of general, non-formal learning and education, primarily overseen by the SIAE, and vocational education and training, firmly supported and currently being reformed by the Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Vocational Education and Training. They shared with us the skills they consider essential for the future – from both personal and professional perspectives. Their appearance was an excellent blend of yin and yang energies – with the roles being endearingly exchanged.
In my professional life, I aspire to have the competencies to lead compassionately and have andragogical knowledge. What truly enriches me is reading – challenging reading.
Broader competencies help individuals move more confidently in their professional field as well.
Equipped for the green and digital transition
The second pair, Dr Ana Vovk (PhD, PhD) from the Faculty of Arts, University of Maribor, and Dr Jože Guna from the Faculty of Natural Sciences and Engineering, University of Ljubljana, complemented each other in their view of green and digital skills. These have been the most frequently addressed in recent years – both at the policy level and in professional and practical contexts. Nevertheless, it seems we still do not fully understand the scope of green skills and their urgency. Ana’s fluent and enthusiastic presentation grounded us, made us reflect and, at times, even laugh. Jože complemented her excellently and introduced us to the digital world in a playful way. Both emphasised the complementarity of these and many other skills necessary for survival and success in an ever-changing world.
We must remain grounded and in touch with nature. Nature has a therapeutic role – it is a solid pillar of inner connectedness.
I encourage the connection between research, industry and people.
Confident and enterprising
The third pair, Dr Alenka Braček Lalić from the Authentic Leadership Institute and Maja Novak, MSc, from We4You, Institute for Education, addressed personal (emotional), interpersonal and communication skills. They shared what influenced their transition to self-employment. This path offers more freedom but demands significant inner organisation, focus and trust – in oneself and others. One can lead, teach and inspire others on journeys in both real and virtual realities only if one is genuine. The speakers were deeply personal, which allowed the audience to relate – precisely what this was all about. There is no more room for fear or shame – and that is what distinguishes a noble person.
When you do not act in line with your (authentic) values, life eventually makes you pay the price.
Admitting vulnerability is extremely important for business success.
Intuition is becoming the superpower of the future!
With these words, Aleksej Metelko inspired us in the final lecture. He pointed out that we are stuck in a vicious cycle of repetitive patterns of thought, most of which are negative. In a way, he permitted us and encouraged us to listen to that quiet inner voice often drowned out by everyday noise. He offered tips on how to sharpen our sense of this perception – usually requiring calm and silence, which is no easy task in today’s fast-paced and cacophonous world!
With creativity, we stimulate intuition – and vice versa.
Zvonka Pangerc Pahernik, MSc (zvonka.pangerc@acs.si), edited by Ana Peklenik (ana.peklenik@acs.si), both from the SIAE