Concept of Lifelong Learning as an Indirect Factor in Preventing Crime and Reality in Kosovo

Abstract

We live in the era of knowledge, and the ability to apply effectively knowledge and necessary skills, is a cornerstone of success for the individuals in relation to the challenges that they face. Where is put in doubt the power of learning and knowledge, there will reign darkness of ignorance. Lack of knowledge and skills is a disadvantage that prevents personal and career development as well as the professional advancement. Concept of lifelong learning is a dynamic system that enables integration in the labor market through the knowledge that an individual can achieve. This automatically means raising the level of academic and professional skills. The concept aims at acquiring knowledge for personal or professional reasons, by encouraging the system of ongoing, voluntary and self-motivated learning. The system as such influences: personal development, social inclusion, active citizenship, enables knowledge competition and increases employment opportunities. Competition in the knowledge and experience increase the quality and eminence. This concept enables the learning for all, and can be followed throughout life and in a variety of different situations. Learning can be seen as something that happens and its application can be included at all social strata regardless of age or gender. All these facts stated above have an effect in the lives of individuals who in most of the cases because of unawareness, inability to find a job because they are not qualified or been unable to engage actively in economic trends, but also loss of hope for the future, they engage in various forms of criminality in order to gain material benefits. This is also an argument more why this concept in the European Union, is an integral part of the policy of economic and social development which also serves as an instrument for ensuring social cohesion and development. But also is used as very important tool, indirectly to prevent individuals from involving in criminal activities as well as assisting law enforcement officers in education and training. Kosovar reality in this respect still leaves much to be desired. Learning in Kosovo is concentrated mainly in theoretical transfer of knowledge from teacher to the students and there are no proper mechanisms to convince that knowledge improved with appropriate skills and competencies will help individuals to be successful in implementation of knowledge earned. Formal system of vocational education and training is based on the provision of education and vocational training at elementary school and a continual professional training at institutions (training centers and employment centers). Universities mainly offer traditional academic lessons as well. The existing situation has a history of the past when Kosovars for ten years have held a parallel system of education. Despite the fact that the level and quality of service was not at satisfactory level, this period shows a reaction to restrictions imposed. Also this reaction through parallel system of education has manifested the Kosovar commitment to the values of education and training and the desire to learn. Despite many positive multiple reflections in the time of existence, this system has had its shortcomings and weaknesses which have its effects even to this day.

DOI: 10.5901/ajis.2015.v4n1s2p215