Lifelong Learning for All: Reflections from Bali

As we moved into the second half of 2023, I found myself deeply humbled to attend and speak at the Inclusive Lifelong Learning Conference 2023 in Bali - organized by the UNESCO Institute for Lifelong Learning and Indonesia's Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs (Prakerja). Over 300 passionate individuals from 40 countries gathered to reimagine learning for a rapidly changing world. 🌐

The Women in Tech Parallel Workshop

At the Women in Tech workshop organized by UN Women, I had the privilege to share insights alongside distinguished leaders:

• 🔹 Dian Siswarini, CEO of PT XL Axiata
• 🔹 Ms. Kanta Singh, Deputy Country Representative at UN Women India
• 🔹 Ms. Tessa Wijaya, COO of Xendit

The session was ably moderated by Ms. Dwi Faiz, Head of Programs at UN Women Indonesia. The conversation centered on how technology and learning can unlock opportunity - especially for women and underrepresented communities.

Why Lifelong Learning Matters Now

The conference lit up minds with enlightening perspectives, transformational stories, and innovative national lifelong learning initiatives.

UNESCO framed it beautifully: 'Emerging economic, technological, environmental and social changes signal the need to foster adaptation, creativity and most importantly, learning that continues throughout life.'

In a world where AI, climate change, and economic shifts are rewriting the rules, the ability to learn - and unlearn - is no longer optional. It's foundational.

The Bali Manifesto

The culminating moment of the conference was the unanimous adoption of the Bali Manifesto - a resolute commitment to facilitate comprehensive lifelong learning opportunities for all, especially the vulnerable and marginalized. 🌟

This wasn't just a policy document. It was a shared promise from educators, technologists, policymakers, and civil society leaders across 40 countries to build systems that leave no one behind.

The Power of Connection

Beyond the intellectual discourse, the event served as a melting pot of diverse experiences and perspectives.

I had the joy of meeting fellow Singapore representatives - Alina from Temasek Foundation and Danni from Prison Fellowship International - as well as global changemakers like Bader from the Ministry of Education in Oman, Robert from International College, Ana from Plan Netherlands, and Sam from Indonesia.

Every interaction enriched my worldview and reaffirmed my commitment to give back. I'm excited to use these learnings to make a positive impact on our global society. 🙏

With a heart full of gratitude, I'm looking forward to translating these invaluable connections into meaningful collaborations - and to continuing the work of building a more inclusive, learning-centered world.

#AlwaysDay1 #LifelongLearning #WomenInTech #DigitalInclusion #SDG4

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