Lifelong learning in Cyprus

The Statistical Service announces that it has published the report, “Lifelong Learning in Cyprus”, 2003. The report presents the results of the survey on lifelong learning, which was part of the household based Labour Force Survey of 2003.

It provides detailed information regarding the participation of the population of Cyprus aged 15 and over in formal education. non-formal education and informal learning activities.

The survey was conducted during April-June 2003 and the reference period was 12 months prior to the interview.

The main findings of the survey are summarized as follows:

* 26.4% of the population age 15 and over was participating in education or training (formal or non-formal education).

* 11.1% was participating in formal education.

* 21.6% was participating in non-formal education.

* 26.2% used at least one method of informal learning.

* Female participation in non-formal education (22.5%) is higher than male participation (20.5%).

* Male participation in informal learning activities (28.7%) is higher than female participation (24.0%).

* Those with tertiary level as their highest educational attainment have much higher participation rates in non-formal education (43.3%) and in informal learning activities (64.3%).

* 68.9% of those in the ages 15-19 participate in non-formal education.

* The highest participation in informal learning activities is among those in the age groups 20-29 and 30-39 with 37.4% and 36.6% respectively.

*The participation in non-formal education and in informal learning activities of the population aged 15 and over is highest among the employed population. with 24.7% and 33.6% respectively.

* Among the employed population the ‘Professionals’ have the highest participation in non-formal education (57.0%) and in informal learning activities (78.3%).