English
The Rural Parliament is a societal event in Finland focused on the development of rural areas and rural policy. The event is organised by local, regional and national stakeholders. During the festival, various events, workshops, cooperation and inspirational speeches were organised across Nurmes. A future remembering and innovation workshop was organised as a part of the multiplier event by AliVe, Karelia.
The workshop explored a vision for the future of lifelong learning that inspires people aged 55+ living in rural areas. To summarise the key points according to workshop participants, the following aspects should be considered: Not everyone will participate in all activities in rural areas, and that should be accepted. It is essential to ensure opportunities are available for those people who wish to engage. Long distances were identified as a significant barrier. Political dynamics and agendas were seen as challenges for rural areas. Participants were concerned about decisions affecting rural regions that often seem to be made by those in urban centres.
It was also discussed that the opportunities rural areas offer are not widely recognised: investing in rural areas—both in infrastructure and in support for the older people—, governments and municipalities could reduce costs while improving residents’ self-sufficiency and wellbeing. Listening to “local parliaments”, and understanding people’s lived experiences are crucial for effective development.
To address these challenges, rural areas need innovative solutions, projects, and initiatives. New types of professionals, such as applied gerontological professionals, are needed to work with rural people. Considering the individual, community, and societal aspects is essential for promoting age-inclusive lifelong learning in rural areas.
You can find more information on the National Rural Parliament here.
Reference:
Myller, T. & Makkonen, H. 2024. Ikäystävällinen jatkuva oppiminen maaseudun näkökulmasta. IkäNYT! 2/2024. Karelia-ammattikorkeakoulu.