Continuous Education

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Continuous education allows individuals to develop their knowledge, skills and abilities throughout their lives. The guide presents the opportunities provided by continuous education as well as state support programs available for this field of education.

Fundamentals of Continuous Education

Continuing education relates not only to the expansion of professional and job-related knowledge, but also to personal development. It contributes to the full realization of a person's potential, made possible through both formal and non-formal learning.

Continuous education is the process of lifelong development of an individual’s knowledge, skills, and abilities, which includes both formal as well as non-formal educational programs.

The following individuals can benefit from continuing education:

Citizens aged 16 and above,
Specialists with higher education,
Job seekers,
Unemployed individuals,
Individuals in need of professional retraining,
Professionals seeking career advancement.

Continuing education is carried out in the following institutions:

Higher education institutions,
Vocational (secondary professional) education institutions,
Professional retraining centers,
Supplementary education centers,
Accredited training centers.

Formal and Non-Formal Education

Formal education, with its structured framework, approved curricula, and state-issued diplomas, forms the foundation of education. Meanwhile, non-formal education, with its flexible nature and practical focus, provides opportunities to develop specific professional skills and to respond quickly to labor market demands. Combining these two forms of education allows for a more comprehensive and effective learning experience by integrating theoretical knowledge with practical skills.

Formal education is a structured, official, and regulated educational system that includes schools, colleges, and universities. It follows a clearly defined framework and curriculum, and upon completion, state-recognized diplomas or certificates are awarded.

Non-formal education is a learning process delivered through courses, seminars, trainings, and other educational activities conducted outside the formal education system. It is more flexible and often aimed at the development of specific skills.

The main differences are:

Structure
Duration
Certification

In terms of structure, formal education has a rigid system and approved curricula, whereas non-formal education is more flexible and adaptable.

In terms of duration, formal education is typically long-term (e.g., 4 years for a bachelor’s degree), while non-formal education can be short-term, lasting from a few days to several months.

Upon completion of formal education, state-recognized diplomas are awarded, whereas non-formal education usually results in certificates or attestations that may not necessarily have official state recognition.

Non-formal education is preferred when:

It is necessary to quickly acquire specific skills,
There is a need for professional retraining,
There is a need to explore a new field,
There is a desire to gain new knowledge alongside work,
Specific practical skills need to be developed.

Formal and non-formal education can work in a complementary way. Formal education provides foundational knowledge and a theoretical base, while non-formal education allows for supplementing that knowledge with practical skills and new professional abilities.

For example, university education can be enhanced with professional courses and training programs, creating a more comprehensive educational experience.

Vocational Education and Retraining

There are state programs for vocational education and retraining, which are available to both those who wish to acquire new knowledge and professions, as well as individuals undergoing professional retraining.

Obtain the Qualification of an Accountant in the Public Sector

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Obtain a Continuing Professional Development Certificate for Healthcare Workers

Learn more

Qualification and Work

With the help of continuing education, it is also possible to obtain qualifications in various professions and transition to jobs requiring those specific professions by applying to institutions affiliated with state bodies.