The Aspen Institute Future of Work Initiative has released a new report, Building A Lifelong Learning System: A Roadmap for Cities, outlining strategies for cities to strengthen education and workforce systems to support lifelong learning. This report is the culmination of a $1.25 million grant from the Cognizant U.S. Foundation to advance local education, training, and policy initiatives to support workers navigating the 21st century workforce.
According to the announcement, this report illuminates the barriers and opportunities of creating a system that helps, not hinders, lifelong learning.
“While much is known about the role that the federal and state governments play in promoting education and training, less attention has been focused on the opportunity that exists for cities to take a leadership role in helping their workers adapt and thrive in a turbulent and changing labor market,” said Alastair Fitzpayne, Executive Director, Aspen Institute Future of Work Initiative. “Cities have been centers of growth and innovation in large part due to the unique resources that exist in cities—from world-class universities and community colleges to a diverse mix of employers. Based on conversations with city leaders in Chicago, Phoenix, and Hartford, this report proposes concrete steps that cities can take to promote lifelong learning.”
“As we navigate both the changing nature of work and the economic impacts brought on by COVID-19, cities have the opportunity to leverage the collective power of employers, education institutions, policymakers, and local organizations to build a resilient, competitive workforce,” said Kristen Titus, Executive Director, Cognizant U.S. Foundation. “The current crisis accelerated ongoing inequities and changes in our workforce systems—this research helps shine a light on the path forward.”
According to the report, cities have an opportunity to play a larger role in helping unemployed, underemployed, and incumbent workers better navigate this complex landscape—in doing so, cities can build an inclusive lifelong learning system that fosters a skilled, competitive, and economically mobile workforce.
–AK
Arya has been a part of the Content & Research Team at Hrnxt.com. She is a keen observer of economic developments, emerging businesses, people in business and keeps a tab on latest happenings in the business environment.