GLAD Webinar Highlights the Missing Links in Financing Adult Learning
02/07/2026
On 2 July 2026, the European Training Foundation (ETF), in cooperation with DVV International, organised the GLAD webinar “Financing of Adult Learning – Which are the Missing Links?“. The event brought together policymakers, experts and practitioners to discuss how sustainable financing can support stronger and more inclusive adult learning systems.
The webinar is part of the Governance Learning, Action and Dialogues (GLAD) network, launched by the ETF in 2022 to support system-level reforms in vocational education and training (VET), lifelong learning and employment policies in the EU’s partner countries. Through policy dialogue and peer learning, GLAD brings together governments, social partners, civil society, business organisations and education practitioners to strengthen the governance of human capital development.
The session opened with Nicolas Jonas (ETF), who introduced the topic and explained why financing adult learning has become an increasingly urgent policy priority. Levan Kvatchadze (DVV International) presented an overview of the main financing approaches for adult learning, highlighting the importance of developing coherent funding models that respond to the diverse needs of adult learners.
A practical perspective was provided by Dr. Mario Vučić, Deputy Director for the Development of Adult Learning and Education at Croatia’s Agency for Vocational Education and Training and Adult Education, who shared the Croatian experience in financing adult education. Participants also explored the findings of the ETF’s recent study on adult learning systems in EU candidate and potential candidate countries, presented by Lisa Rustico (ETF), which identifies common governance and financing challenges across the region.
The webinar concluded with an interactive discussion moderated by Siria Taurelli (ETF), allowing participants to exchange experiences and reflect on how financing, governance, strategic planning and partnerships can work together to strengthen adult learning systems.
In her closing remarks, Siria Taurelli announced the next GLAD webinar, which will focus on Governance Models for Adult Learning Systems. The upcoming session will continue the series by exploring how effective governance frameworks can support resilient, high-quality and accessible adult learning systems.