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The Project: Improving the Recognition of Non-Formal Adult Education Certificates
This project brings together a diverse group of organisations dedicated to improving the recognition of non-formal adult education. Our partnership includes experienced providers of non-formal adult education, working primarily with adults facing or at risk of social exclusion, alongside Munster Technological University which brings valuable academic expertise.
For years, we, as non-formal adult education providers, have witnessed the lack of recognition of the certificates we award upon completion of our courses. A challenge we share with thousands of other Non-Formal Adult Education providers across the EU.
Driven by a shared commitment to improve this situation, through this project, we aim to elevate the value and recognition of certificates earned through non-formal adult education, ensuring adult learners receive the recognition they deserve.
As highlighted in the European Guidelines for Validating Non-formal and Informal Learning (CEDEFOP, 2015), building trust is essential for non-formal education providers. This means demonstrating that we carry out the four phases of the validation process (identification, documentation, assessment and certification) following the same standards as formal education providers.
To achieve this, we have developed a methodology for aligning non-formal adult education with the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS). This system is widely used in formal education across Europe to standardise credit accumulation and transfer. By implementing our methodology, non-formal education providers across the EU will be able to demonstrate that they carry out the four phases of validation following the same standards as formal education providers. Thus, significantly increasing the recognition of their certificates by external stakeholders and enhancing the future prospects of adult learners.
The Project Partners
The Marcelino Champagnat Foundation is a non-profit organisation established by the Marist Brothers to support socio-educational initiatives in the Mediterranean region. Its work focuses on improving the living conditions and fostering the personal, social, and educational development of children, young people, and families facing social exclusion or at-risk situations.
The Foundation implements a variety of programmes and projects aimed at providing opportunities and support to vulnerable populations. These initiatives often focus on education, social inclusion, and community development.
Fondazione Siamo Mediterraneo is dedicated to promoting the social inclusion of minors and young immigrants. Based in Syracuse, the foundation addresses the challenges faced by young immigrants and refugees, particularly in the context of evolving migration policies and reception systems in Italy.
The foundation provides essential services such as shelter, legal assistance, and integration support to help young people navigate the complexities of immigration and build a stable future.
Asociatia Fratilor Maristi ai Scolilor din Romania (AFMSR) is a non-profit organisation committed to providing care and support for abandoned children. With centres in Bucharest and Moinesti, AFMSR offers residential care and development programmes for minors aged 4-18.
AFMSR focuses on creating a nurturing and supportive environment for children who have experienced family abandonment. Its programmes aim to ensure the integral development of each child, fostering autonomy, life skills, and opportunities for a brighter future.
Határtalan Szív Alapítvány provides educational support and catch-up programmes for children, young people, and families facing severe poverty and social challenges. The foundation works with individuals from six months to 22 years old, addressing issues such as unemployment, low levels of education, and social exclusion.
The foundation strives to break cycles of disadvantage by providing tailored support and interventions. Its work emphasises empowerment, skill development, and creating pathways for individuals to improve their lives and contribute positively to their communities.
The Espiral Loranca Association is a non-profit organisation dedicated to supporting the growth and development of vulnerable children, young people, and adults. Operating across five centres in the Madrid region, the association provides a range of social and educational services.
Its activities include day centres, community support programmes, and vocational training initiatives. The Espiral Loranca Association is committed to creating opportunities for individuals to overcome challenges and achieve their full potential.
Munster Technological University (Ireland)
Munster Technological University (Ireland)
Munster Technological University (MTU) is a multi-campus technological university contributing to the region through the provision of academic programmes that support student development and opportunities, education and research. MTU serves the South-West region of Ireland with six campuses and a diverse student and staff population.
MTU has a strong focus on supporting lifelong learning and has goals and priorities which position the workplace as a valid and valuable centre for learning and has been at the forefront of developments in the recognition and validation of prior learning for many years.
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