Shaping Europe Through Adult Education

Join us for the AONTAS Adult Education Summit 2026, taking place on 21st and 22nd October 2026 at the Radisson Blu Royal Hotel, Dublin 8.

Held during Ireland's Presidency of the Council of the European Union, this year's Summit will explore the theme Shaping Europe's Future through Adult Education.

At last year's Summit, we came away even stronger in our conviction that education is political. At a time when democracy, equality, and social cohesion are under increasing pressure, adult and community education has a vital role to play in shaping the kind of society we want to live in.

Over two days, the Summit will bring together learner voices, community educators, researchers, policymakers, artists, and activists from across Ireland and Europe. Through workshops, exhibitions, performances, discussion, and debate, participants will explore how adult and community education can respond to some of the most pressing issues facing society today, from racism and disinformation to participation, belonging, and active citizenship.

The Summit will showcase the impact of adult and community education in communities across Ireland and create space to learn from European colleagues and partners. Above all, it is an opportunity to come together, share experiences, build connections, and celebrate the transformative power of adult learning.

Further programme details will be announced in the coming weeks.

Description supplied by the event organiser.