In a world marked by turbulence – rising inequality, migration, and conflict -it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and wonder where to find hope. For us at An Cosán, that hope is found in our learners and the power of community education. We believe the way to tackle the issues we face is through continued dialogue and the development of our shared potential. This is the very essence of community education: an inclusive, compassionate, and courageous path forward for everyone.
This week, An Cosán is proud to support the AONTAS Community Education Network’s campaign shining a light on the value of the Community Education sector. Community education is not just about gaining a qualification; it’s a local, lifelong, and life-changing journey. It’s about building confidence, fostering wellbeing, and strengthening the social fabric of our communities. It’s a powerful tool for social change, and its impact is deeply felt in the lives of our learners. In our recent surveys, we’ve been humbled to see that over 90% of our learners reported an increase in their confidence and sense of wellbeing. This isn’t just a number: it’s a testament to the transformative power of a supportive learning environment.
Community education is a powerful vehicle for national progress. It directly supports key government policy goals, including:
- Tackling social exclusion, loneliness, and inequality: By providing a welcoming, accessible space for people from all backgrounds, we break down barriers and build a sense of belonging.
- Promoting digital literacy: Our programmes equip learners with the skills needed to thrive in a changing world, addressing shortfalls in essential digital connectivity.
- Enhancing personal development and wellbeing: Through a holistic approach that includes counselling and one-on-one support, we nurture the whole person, not just the learner.
- Strengthening democratic engagement and social cohesion: Education empowers individuals to become active, engaged citizens who can contribute to their communities and society at large.
The impact of this work is undeniable. Community education offers exceptional value, transforming lives with minimal overheads. Learners progress into further education, higher education, and employment, all while helping to address wider societal challenges.
Despite its proven value and alignment with national goals, community education faces a critical and unsustainable challenge: persistent underfunding. Demand for our services is rising, yet resources are shrinking, putting the most vulnerable learners at risk. The numbers tell a stark story: Community education learners make up 20% of all Further Education and Training (FET) learners, yet they receive only 2% of the total FET budget.
This is a disconnect we must address. An Cosán, and other community education providers, are dedicated to breaking down the barriers that prevent people from seeking a better life through education. We work closely with our learners to identify their challenges—from the need for on-site childcare to digital access—and find solutions together. We are an inclusive organisation that believes everyone has a place on the path to a brighter future.
On this Community Education Day of Visibility, we want to shine a light on the bold hearts and bright futures of our learners. Their incredible bravery and talent for leadership can change our society. By continuing to support them, we can build a more connected, compassionate, and courageous Ireland for all.
0 Comments