University

It is important to protect strong and independent universities and research institutions that serve society throughout the country. The development of flexible learning and distance learning and the continued increase of study programs in distance education promote equal opportunities for education regardless of location and circumstances. An accessible process for the evaluation of university education from other countries is essential for the education of all residents to benefit Icelandic society and also to promote inclusion in Icelandic society. There are numerous opportunities in the continued development of the Student Loan Fund, as the fund can be better utilized as an equalizing tool and incentive system.

• University operations in education and research should meet international quality standards.

• Framsókn seeks to ensure equal opportunities for all to pursue university education regardless of location or circumstances.

• Framsókn believes that the free income threshold of the Student Loan Fund needs to be increased in line with price and wage developments. Individuals should not face excessive reductions if they work alongside their studies.

• Framsókn emphasizes various measures to strengthen the Icelandic language for both those learning Icelandic as a first and second language. Therefore, it is important that work at the university level focuses on acquiring knowledge about Icelandic, pedagogy of the Icelandic language, knowledge dissemination to teachers at all school levels, and direct teaching in Icelandic for first and second language speakers. Framsókn wants more effective work in evaluating education from foreign universities, as well as professional rights.

• Framsókn wants to see increased offerings of vocational university education, such as the new program in preschool education.

• Framsókn wants to activate the possibility of utilizing the incentive system within the Student Loan Fund.

• Framsókn wants to strengthen the continuous education centers and knowledge clusters in rural areas so that they can better support the country's universities with services to distance learners in active learning communities in cooperation with universities and professional institutions in the respective regions.

Continuing Education in the Adult Education System

The importance of adult education as the fifth pillar of the education system is often underestimated. Especially when looking at equality of access to education regardless of location and circumstances. It is necessary to ensure the continued diversity of educational offerings, access to academic and career counseling, and facilities for learning communities throughout the country. Continued efforts must be made to enhance and develop skills assessment.

• Framsókn supports and works towards strengthening adult education as the fifth pillar of the education system and emphasizes that adults have access to academic and career counseling, skills assessment, and diverse learning opportunities alongside work, at recognized continuous education centers around the country.

• Framsókn emphasizes equality of access to education and that all adults should have the opportunity for lifelong learning.