The AONTAS Adult Education Summit
Connecting Communities for Collective Action
19th & 20th November
Join us for this landmark event bringing together communities, policymakers, and key stakeholders from across Ireland, the UK and Europe.
About the Summit
This year’s AONTAS Summit will:
Create space for vital conversations around inequality, division, and the systems shaping our society
Highlight the power and impact of adult and community education in building a fairer, more inclusive future
Feature powerful contributions from learners, educators, researchers and thought-leaders tackling today’s biggest social and educational challenges
Day 1: Wednesday 19th November
Day one will open with a performance by Forever Young Community Choir and an address from Fiona O’Byrne, Assistant Secretary at DFHERIS.
The morning will include the launch of the 2024–2025 Learner Voices Across Ireland: National FET Learner Forum Report, presented by members of the AONTAS research team, followed by a Learner Voice Panel Discussion.
After lunch, participants will take part in interactive workshops on amplifying learner voice, transformative education in times of polarisation, and collaborative partnerships for pathways into education.
The day will conclude with a keynote by Dr Sharon Clancy on Reclaiming Resistance and Resilience, followed by a European panel discussion on adult education beyond borders, featuring experts and partners from Ireland, the UK, and across Europe
Day 2: Thursday 20th November
Day two will open with a performance by Eddie Winston and an address from Minister Marian Harkin. The morning will feature a Gasta-style launch of The Irish Journal of Adult and Community Education: The Adult Learner 2025, hosted by Dr Tom Farrelly with contributions from leading educators and researchers.
Professor Peter Mayo will deliver a keynote on Popular Education in Historical and Contemporary Practice, followed by a Learner Spotlight.
Afternoon workshops will explore equality in apprenticeships, anti-racism, and storytelling for community connection, before closing with a panel on strengthening communities through adult education with sector leaders and community activists.
Meet our Exhibitors
SOLAS
SOLAS is the state agency responsible for Further Education and Training (FET) in Ireland. Working closely with Regional Skills managers and our partners in Education and Training Boards nationally, SOLAS manages a range of Further Education and Training programmes which enable learners to succeed in the labour market and thrive in society. Programmes include Apprenticeships, Traineeships, Skills to Advance, eCollege and the European Globalisation Fund
Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI)
Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI) is an independent state agency responsible for promoting quality and accountability in education and training services in Ireland. QQI develops and maintains the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ), ensuring the recognition and comparability of awards. The agency also supports learners and providers by advancing quality assurance, qualifications standards and lifelong learning opportunities.
Adult Literacy for Life (ALL)
Adult Literacy for Life (ALL) is Ireland’s national ten-year strategy to improve adult literacy, numeracy and digital literacy. Led by SOLAS and supported by a cross-government and cross-sector approach, the strategy aims to ensure that every adult has the skills, confidence and opportunities to fully engage in society and the economy. ALL focuses on inclusion, empowerment and lifelong learning for all adults in Ireland.
Saolta
Saolta is a Development Education strategic partnership programme for the Adult and Community Education sector in Ireland. Led by Development Perspectives, the consortium includes AONTAS, Concern Worldwide, Irish Rural Link, and the Department of Adult and Community Education at Maynooth University. A key element of Saolta is the SDG Advocate training, which supports active citizens to deepen their understanding of the UN Sustainable Development Goals and lead transformative change locally and globally.
The Wheel
The Wheel is Ireland’s national association of charities, community groups and social enterprises. It provides leadership and representation for the charity and community sector, advocating on behalf of a growing network of members. They also offers advice, training and a range of opportunities for those working or volunteering across the sector.
Léargas
Léargas manages international and national exchange, cooperation and funding programmes in education, training, youth and community work. Through initiatives such as Erasmus+ and the European Solidarity Corps, the organisation helps individuals and groups in Ireland connect with peers across Europe. Léargas supports learning, inclusion and innovation by fostering partnerships that share knowledge, develop skills and strengthen communities.
Generation Ireland
Generation Ireland is a non-profit organisation dedicated to transforming the education-to-employment landscape and supporting people into sustainable careers. They work with employers, government, and community partners to deliver free, practical training programmes that prepare adults from all backgrounds for in-demand roles. Its mission is to help individuals build meaningful careers while enabling employers to access skilled and motivated talent.
Europass
Europass, managed in Ireland by Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI), provides a set of free online tools and information to help people communicate their skills, qualifications and experience clearly across Europe. The service supports learners and employers by promoting transparency and mobility in education and employment. Europass also helps individuals plan learning and career pathways within a European context.
Download the Summit Brochure
Explore the full AONTAS Adult Education Summit 2025 programme, including keynote speakers, panel discussions, and interactive workshops. Find session details, timings, and everything you need to plan your two days at the Aviva Stadium.