QUALTRACK International Conference: Redefining Quality in Adult Education

Prague, April 15, 2024 – The QUALTRACK International Conference, held in Prague, brought together experts, policymakers, and practitioners from across Europe to discuss the critical importance of quality assurance in adult education. The event, developed through a collaborative effort of partners from five countries with the support of the Erasmus+ program, showcased the innovative QUALTRACK framework and its potential to transform the landscape of adult learning.

Keynote speakers from the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Croatia, Greece, and Italy shared their insights and experiences on quality assurance systems and initiatives in their respective countries. Jitka Chrtková, advisor to the Czech Minister of Labor and Social Affairs, emphasized the crucial role of professional education in adapting to the rapidly changing labor market. Monika Měšťanová, Head of Adult Education Unit at the Czech Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports, highlighted the government’s commitment to enhancing lifelong learning opportunities and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. 

Ildikó Pathóová, Head of Adult Education Unit at the Slovak Ministry of Education, Research, Development and Youth, provided an overview of the proposed legislation on adult education in Slovakia, focusing on the Slovak Qualification Framework and the National System of Qualifications. Antonela Marjanušić from Croatia discussed the country’s advancements in quality assurance and the introduction of a micro-credential system, while Iliana Spyridonos from Greece presented the extensive framework for quality assurance in adult education. Andrea Filippo Calabria from CEIPES, Italy, addressed the challenges faced by the Italian adult education system and proposed comprehensive strategies to enhance basic skills proficiency and align VET policies with other educational offerings. 

Viola Pinzi, project manager at the European Association for the Education of Adults (EAEA), explored the integration of quality assurance in adult learning and education through the RALExILA project, emphasizing the critical role of quality assurance across educational sectors. 

The conference also featured a detailed presentation of the QUALTRACK framework by Miroslav Parvonič from the Association of Adult Learning Institutions CR. The framework, designed to be accessible, practical, and focused on continuous improvement, provides a clear roadmap for institutions to demonstrate their commitment to excellence in adult education. The conference concluded with a panel discussion on lessons learned and future directions for quality assurance in adult education. 

“The QUALTRACK International Conference has been a resounding success, bringing together experts from across Europe to share their knowledge and experiences in quality assurance for adult education,” said Jana Brabcová, President of the Association of Adult Learning Institutions CR. “We believe that the QUALTRACK framework has the potential to revolutionize the way we approach quality in adult learning, ensuring that education remains relevant, effective, and accessible to all.”