29/07/2026
Ireland's workforce is changing. People are working longer, changing careers later in life and looking for ways to develop new skills in an evolving labour market. Yet participation in higher education still drops significantly after mid-career.
The question isn't whether adults over 50 still want to learn. It's whether higher education is designed to meet them where they are.
Lifelong learning is about recognising that learning can happen throughout life, and that universities have a responsibility to create flexible pathways that reflect the realities of modern learners.
At UL, initiatives such as Pathways Plus are helping more people see that returning to education isn't about starting over. It's about building on everything they've already achieved.
A key part of this is Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), which recognises the experience, skills and perspectives of applicants who may not meet the standard entry requirements through traditional routes.
As Michael Hennessy, Professional Education Manager at University of Limerick, explains:
“At UL, we believe experience matters,” says Hennessy. “Many adult learners bring significant knowledge and skills developed over years in the workplace and in their communities. RPL ensures that this is recognised and built upon rather than overlooked.
“RPL is becoming an increasingly important tool in re-engaging learners. It helps to remove traditional barriers to entry, boosts confidence, and provides a more accessible and inclusive pathway back to education.”
Read more about Pathways Plus and the supports available in the recent article from The Irish Times here:
https://eu1.hubs.ly/H0xgYTR0
Link to Pathways Plus webpage:
https://eu1.hubs.ly/H0xg-8-0
