The importance of lifelong learning in sustainable development: Türkiye applications

Sustainability refers to equitable and fair access to essentials such as education, housing, transportation, communication, and justice. In societies where economic, social, and regional exclusion is experienced, education and lifelong learning are among the key concepts for achieving social sustainability goals. Lifelong learning exists in various forms across all communities. It provides individuals with diverse and varied learning options necessary for sustainable development, equipping them with the attitudes and skills required. It is an unavoidable reality that societal differentiation begins with individuals. Therefore, states must strengthen their citizens with lifelong learning opportunities and activities to enhance their social capital capacities to cope with social, economic, and social issues in a continuously changing world. Additionally, the importance and role of lifelong learning should not be forgotten in realizing the concepts of learning societies, learning cities, and global citizenship. Lifelong learning encompasses the learning activities of an individual throughout their life. It offers numerous benefits to individuals, including personal and professional development, enhancement of knowledge, skills, and abilities, meeting the need for self-improvement, adapting to change, playing an active role in society, and effective citizenship. Through lifelong learning, individuals can satisfy their need for acquiring knowledge, develop themselves personally and professionally, and achieve self-realization. With globalization, the ease of access to information and the formation of learning societies have increased the importance of policies on lifelong learning. Lifelong learning practices are progressively advancing both worldwide and in Turkey. This study examines the objectives and importance of sustainable development, emphasizing the necessity of lifelong learning and exploring its status in Turkey and the EU.