Annual Award for Adult Non-Formal Education in Latvia "Saules laiva"

The adult non-formal education annual award “Saules laiva” is a significant national-level initiative in Latvia, aimed at public recognition of the most outstanding and sustainable providers of non-formal adult education and lifelong learning. Its mission is to inspire society and highlight the role of non-formal education in personal growth, skills development, and social inclusion.

In 2025, the award was presented for the tenth consecutive year, demonstrating its sustainability and significance in Latvia's educational ecosystem. It is granted within the framework of the Ministry of Education and Science’s Erasmus+ project "EPALE National Support Service". The initiative serves as a platform that highlights examples of good practice, promotes cooperation among education providers, and strengthens the prestige of adult education in society, based on international lifelong learning guidelines and national strategic development goals.

Main activities and results achieved

Today’s non-formal adult education is increasingly focused on digital skills, the meaningful use of artificial intelligence tools and innovative learning methods. In the context of the “Saules laiva” award, special recognition is given to those initiative authors and educators who successfully integrate modern technologies into their work, promote digital literacy and cybersecurity, and ensure an accessible, flexible learning environment for learners of all ages.

The award tradition includes nomination, evaluation, and exchange of experience:

• Nomination process: An open call where municipalities, educational institutions, non-governmental organizations, and other partners nominate the best providers and initiatives of adult non-formal education.

• Evaluation of applications: Applications are assessed based on criteria such as innovation, impact on the target audience, sustainability, civic participation, and accessibility. Experience from the past three years is evaluated, with a special emphasis on digital and green skills programs, work with specific target groups, as well as internal quality and sustainable operation strategies.

• Award ceremony: A festive event where the previous year's award winner passes the symbolic “Saules laiva” to the new laureate, thereby strengthening a sense of community and the continuity of tradition.

• Promoting good practices: Gathering the winners' experiences and stories, followed by broad public communication to inspire other adult education providers.

Why is it a good practice? 

The adult non-formal education annual award “Saules laiva” is an example of good practice due to the following factors:

• Recognition and motivation: It provides high national appreciation for educators and enthusiasts who contribute to adult growth every day, increasing their professional motivation.

• Sense of community and belonging: The concept of the annual award symbolizes continuous movement, cooperation, and unity within the Latvian educational community.

• Clear and transparent criteria: The evaluation process is based on qualitative and quantitative indicators, ensuring a fair and objective selection of winners.

• Public awareness: The initiative regularly draws media and public attention to lifelong learning issues, demonstrating that it is never too late to learn at any age.

Each year, this initiative brings together a wide audience across Latvia – municipalities, educational centers, non-governmental organizations, and hundreds of adult learners who improve their skills through various programs. For the winners, the “Saules laiva” provides high national recognition and public acknowledgment, which raises the prestige of the organisation, strengthens the team's professional self-confidence and serves as a strong incentive for further growth and the creation of new, innovative educational initiatives.