Industry‐University Partnership: Implementing Lifelong Learning

In today′s working life, people need continuous updating and upgrading of their competence and skills – they need lifelong learning. Lifelong learning includes development of operational capabilities (which help one to do the current job better) and strategic capabilities (which allow one to learn the requirements of future jobs). Operational capabilities can be improved through company training. Strategic capabilities require continuous education. That is a task of universities and other public education providers. However, both must be linked together. Describes a model for lifelong learning based on industry‐university co‐operation. It demonstrates how the model can be implemented through analysing core competences and core employees of companies based on their business strategies. The competence development needs of companies are transferred into lifelong learning programmes for individuals. The roles of employers and universities in the implementation process are outlined. Highlights a case study based on the implementation of lifelong learning in Finland.