HIGHER EDUCATION AND LONGLIFE LEARNING WITHIN THE KNOWLEDGE ECONOMY

Abstract

The knowledge economy is a learning economy. The economic success and the culture of constant innovation depend on the capacity of the workers to learn from each other. The knowledge economy is not based on the power of machines, but on the power of the brain - the power of thinking, learning and innovating. Industrial economies need mechanical workers, whereas the knowledge economy needs knowledge workers. In order to meet these requirements, new models of education and training are required, a model of lifelong learning. Education and human capital are a key link that connects other elements of the knowledge economy. The accumulation of knowledge and its application is of crucial importance for economic development and for achieving a competitive advantage in the global economy. In this regard, the role of higher education is very important. Developing countries still face problems in the area of higher education, unequal access, quality and relevance of higher education, as well as problems in the area of inflexible government structure and ways of managing it.
To be successful in the knowledge economy a new set of knowledge and skills is required. This includes academic knowledge, foreign language, mathematics and scientific skills, and the ability to use information and communication technology. In circumstances where Schumpeterian creative destruction is of particular importance for creating innovations leading to economic growth, the role of education, including higher education, i.e. universities with their research, study programs and services, help the society in this direction. Education enables the country to have a sustainable future. In this regard, the concept of education for sustainable development builds the national capacities of nations towards the creation, expansion and implementation of strategic plans. The education for sustainable development enables sustained economic growth by improving the quality and skills of the workforce, while meeting the needs of the integrated environment and social justice.
Lifelong Learning is the key to preparing workers for a contest in the global economy. In this regard, lifelong learning, which is "lifelong, voluntary, and self-motivated", is especially important in gaining knowledge for personal or professional reasons. As such, it not only enhances social inclusion, active citizenship and personal development, but also competitiveness and employment in the country. The sustainable future of the country as a whole can be ensured if citizens have the key knowledge and functional literacy that determines the global competitiveness, social cohesion and a healthy environment. The promotion of lifelong learning is something that needs to be embedded in the minds of people, especially in the dynamic world in which they live today.