AONTAS

The ENHANCE project may have come to an end, but its impact continues.

Over the past two and a half years, we worked with partners across Europe to explore what it really means to put learner voice at the centre of adult education. The project reminded us that when learners are involved in shaping education, everyone benefits.

Our EU Projects Officer, Larisa Sioneriu, reflects on the journey, the partnerships, and what comes next in our latest blog.

Read it here: https://www.aontas.com/when-learners-lead-reflecting-on-the-enhance-journey/

Learning happens everywhere, and this event is all about celebrating that. 🌱

As a proud Saolta partner, we're delighted to share Making spACE for Community, a national gathering that celebrates the power of Adult and Community Education to bring people together, strengthen communities and create spaces where everyone can learn and belong.

Join educators, learners, community organisations and partners from across Ireland on Wednesday, 4 November.

🎟️ Find out more and register: https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/making-space-for-community-tickets-1993909621352

This is a great opportunity for those working or volunteering in the voluntary, community and social enterprise sector across Ireland and Northern Ireland.

If you're interested in helping shape policy and strengthen cross border collaboration, we encourage you to apply before Monday, 17 August.

Find out more below ⬇️

InsightLink All-Island Alliance Membership – Nominations Open

There's still time to submit a nomination to join the InsightLink All-Island Alliance. The Alliance will create a revolutionary new approach to sector engagement and policy influence.

The Alliance will operate with 50 members from the voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) sector in Northern Ireland and Ireland – if you are working or volunteering in the sector and are interested in joining, please complete this form by 12 noon on Monday 17 August.

Further information can be found at: https://champ.ly/6XaRjnse

InsightLink is a project supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB).

The Wheel Special EU Programmes Body - SEUPB

Nobody should have to choose between learning and making ends meet.

Financial barriers are still one of the biggest obstacles to education. Around 75,000 FET learners are unemployed or rely on income supports.

That's why, for Budget 2027, we're calling for increased learner allowances, better travel, meal and accommodation supports, and a new FET Learner Assistance Fund.

Read our full Pre Budget Submission here: https://tinyurl.com/PBS2027Document

Support learners. Remove barriers. Unlock opportunity.

This September could be the start of something new.

Looking to learn something new, build confidence, or make a fresh start? At Fetchcourses.ie, you can explore a wide range of Further Education and Training opportunities.

No matter how long you’ve been out of education, there’s a course waiting for you.

Visit fetchcourses.ie to take the first step.

This year marks 50 years since the first International Council for Adult Education (ICAE) World Assembly, held in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. 🌍

For five decades, ICAE has brought together organisations from around the world to champion the right to adult education and lifelong learning, ensuring that learners' voices are part of global conversations and shaping education policy.

Today, ICAE continues that work through major international initiatives, including contributing to the sixth Global Report on Adult Learning and Education (GRALE 6) and helping shape the future of education beyond 2030.

At AONTAS, we're proud to be part of the ICAE network, working alongside organisations across the world to strengthen adult learning and advocate for education as a lifelong right.

Learn more about ICAE or become a member: https://icae.global/en/

Source: ICAE World Assembly 50th Anniversary webinar, June 2026.

Why join the ?

As an AONTAS member, you'll have access to a dedicated online space with opportunities to support your work, including:

✅ Funding opportunities
✅ EU project updates
✅ Training and professional development

The Members Hub is designed to help you stay informed, connected, and supported throughout the year.

Interested in becoming an AONTAS member? Get in touch at [email protected]