سياسة الوصول إلى التعلم مدى الحياة

SDG 4 Quality Education — Policy 4.3.5

Contents

1. Policy statement and purpose

2. Legal framework and mandate

3. Scope and applicability

4. Responsibilities

5. Policy Review

1. Policy statement and purpose

1.1. Qassim University’s Lifelong Learning policy aims to set out a framework to ensure all have access to high-quality education, training, and activities that are accessible to all, regardless of ethnicity, religion, disability immigration status or gender.

1.2. Within this document — Qassim University refers to Lifelong Learning as the comprehensive range of learning activities pursued throughout an individual’s lifetime, with the objective of enhancing knowledge, skills, and competences in various domains, including personal, civic, social, and employment-related aspects.

1.3. Qassim University’s mission is to design, develop, and deliver education, training, and course programs through both face-to-face and distance-learning modalities. The University shall support and promote accessible and inclusive lifelong learning opportunities within the entirety of the University for individuals and organizations across public, private, and international sectors.

1.4. The Policy aims to ensure high-quality educational services, promote continuous professional development, and facilitate recognized certification opportunities for all segments of society.

2. Legal framework and mandate

2.1. This Policy is established in alignment with the highest legal and strategic directives of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, with emphasis on improved fundamental learning outcomes and building a lifelong learning journey for all.

2.2. To achieve this, establishing an environment that is conducive to effective teaching and learning is a key mission to which Qassim University strives for, whilst promoting a sense of harmony and fulfilment for all.

3. Scope and applicability

3.1. This Policy applies universally to all colleges, deanships, academic departments, centres, and professional units affiliated with Qassim University.

3.2. Using a pedagogical approach that prioritizes student-centred learning, fostering the development of critical thinking skills and the ability to evaluate information, whilst developing core skills fundamental to thrive in the community and professional working environments.

3.3. Qassim University fosters the development of independent learning abilities and attitudes that encourage lifelong learning throughout one’s life, in order to adapt to the rapid advancements in technology, within society, and in the workplace.

3.3. Additionally, Qassim University plans, organizes, or facilitates national and international education and certification programs, courses, seminars, conferences, congresses, workshops, and similar events in response to the needs of public institutions, private sector organizations, international bodies, and individuals.

4. Responsibilities 

4.1. Qassim University is dedicated to designing, developing, and delivering innovative education and training programs that support lifelong learning and empower individuals to succeed in a dynamic, knowledge-based economy. In alignment with Saudi Vision 2030, these programs will integrate the domains of life, work, and continuous learning, irrespective of geographical or socio-economic constraints. This commitment extends to students, professionals, and community members seeking to enhance their skills and contribute meaningfully to national development.

4.2. To achieve this, the University will:

• Forge strategic partnerships with national and international educational bodies, NGOs, community organizations, and other stakeholders to deliver training in literacy, numeracy, foundational education, vocational development, and emerging future skills. These partnerships will facilitate access to high-quality learning resources, fostering a culture of shared responsibility and collaboration.
• Engage qualified and motivated local experts and community members as facilitators and resource persons to reinforce community ownership, capacity-building, and program sustainability.
• Leverage digital technologies and modern learning platforms to ensure flexible, accessible, and scalable delivery of programs across the Kingdom, contributing to digital transformation goals under Vision 2030.
• Establish flexible pathways and academic re-entry mechanisms allowing learners to pause and resume their studies at different life stages, ensuring that education remains continuous, adaptable, and inclusive.
• Design gender-responsive and inclusive programs that eliminate stereotypes, promote equal opportunities, and support the Kingdom’s commitment to enhancing women’s participation in the workforce and public life.
• Introduce short-term, micro-credential, and stackable certification programs that are aligned with labor market needs and recognized by industry partners. These programs may be credit-bearing or non-credit bearing and support rapid skill acquisition and employability.
• Optimize the use of evenings, weekends, and seasonal breaks to deliver flexible learning opportunities tailored to working adults, professionals, and lifelong learners.

5. Policy Review

5.1. This policy will be periodically reviewed in accordance with University regulations to ensure alignment with national priorities, labor market needs, and evolving trends in lifelong learning, digital education, and Vision 2030 initiatives.