Workshop on developing lifelong learning programs held at HKS

Organized by the University Center for Professional Development Programs and Other Programs, the workshop “Developing Lifelong Learning Programs” was held at the Catholic University of Croatia on Monday, May 11, 2026. The workshop was opened by the Rector of the Catholic University of Croatia, Prof. Željko Tanjić, PhD, who emphasized that the development of lifelong learning is one of the University’s priorities, but also a necessity in the Croatian context.

Vice-Rector for Teaching, Prof. Roko Mišetić, PhD, highlighted the importance of lifelong learning as a response to rapid changes in the economy. He pointed out that Croatia aims to reach the EU average in adult education, with the Catholic University of Croatia providing full institutional and infrastructural support to its employees in the development of such programs.

Irena Ištvanić, advisor to the director at the Agency for Vocational Education and Training and Adult Education (ASOO), presented the methodology for developing programs aligned with the Croatian Qualifications Framework (CROQF). The focus was placed on creating flexible micro-qualifications and integrating digital and green skills to improve participants’ employability.

Majda Jelenčić, senior advisor in the Department for Career Guidance and Education at the Croatian Employment Service (HZZ), provided a detailed explanation of the voucher system, which offers significant opportunities for financing education. Her presentation also served as a guide for registering programs and institutions in the HZZ service provider database.

The Head of the Center, Assistant Professor Josip Ježovita, PhD, presented the University’s Regulations on Lifelong Learning Programs. He explained the entire administrative process, from the initial proposal and definition of ECTS credits, through evaluation by the Quality Assurance Committee, to the final decision of the Senate.

Vice-Rector for Quality, Identity and Mission and President of the Quality Assurance Committee, Prof. Ante Crnčević, PhD, introduced participants to the work of the Committee. He pointed out the most common challenges encountered by program proposers during evaluation procedures and presented a vision of lifelong learning from a Catholic perspective. He particularly emphasized the importance of lifelong learning as derived directly from the apostolic constitution Ex corde Ecclesiae, the foundational document for the operation of Catholic universities.

The University’s Executive Secretary, Stanka Oršolić, MA in Theology, provided practical instructions on managing the revenue and expenditure aspects of programs in accordance with the University’s financial plan, offering support in the preparation of financial plans for future programs.

At the end of the workshop, Assistant Professor Josip Ježovita, PhD, and Dr. Žanina Žigo addressed the participants. On that occasion, Assistant Professor Ježovita presented the application form for new programs and announced further plans for the work of the Center. The launch of a call for proposals for lifelong learning programs was also announced, open to employees of the Catholic University of Croatia.

Link to the workshop presentations: Presentations

Link to the Center for Lifelong Learning Programs and Other Programs: Lifelong Learning