Harnessing Digital Technologies for Transformative Lifelong Learning and Skills Development in the Nigerian Adult Education System
Keywords:
Digital Technologies, Lifelong Learning, Adult Education, Skills Development, Transformative LearningAbstract
The rapid advancement of digital technologies has transformed educational systems globally, making lifelong learning and continuous skills development increasingly important in the modern knowledge economy. Despite the critical role of adult education in promoting literacy, employability, and social inclusion in Nigeria, the sector continues to face challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, limited access to digital resources, low digital literacy levels, and weak integration of technology into learning processes. This conceptual paper examines how digital technologies can be harnessed to promote transformative lifelong learning and skills development within Nigeria's adult education system. Drawing on Transformative Learning Theory, Andragogy, and Connectivism, the paper argues that digital technologies provide flexible, inclusive, and learner-centred opportunities that can improve educational access and enhance practical skills acquisition among adult learners. It further highlights how digital integration can support employability, digital literacy, entrepreneurship, and lifelong adaptability in a rapidly changing society. The paper identifies major barriers to digital transformation, including infrastructural deficits, economic inequality, inadequate digital competencies, and policy implementation challenges. It concludes that strengthening digital integration in adult education is essential for developing a more inclusive, responsive, and sustainable lifelong learning system in Nigeria.
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