Adult education and inactive women in Cottonera (Malta) : a qualitative case study of implications of the National Lifelong Learning Strategy 2023-2030 measures targeting adults at risk of poverty and social exclusion

Abstract

This qualitative case study explores the lived experiences of inactive women or those not in education, employment and training in Cottonera (Malta) and the intersecting factors shaping their participation in adult education. It examines the implications of these experiences and perceptions for implementing Pillar 1 of Malta’s National Lifelong Learning Strategy 2023-2030, particularly Measure 1, addressing basic skills gaps, and Measure 7, supporting re-engagement in education for early school leavers. Guided by a critical feminist and intersectional framework, the study draws on thematic analysis of ten semi-structured interviews with women aged 20–55 and a focus group with community stakeholders. Findings reveal that exclusion from AE is driven by overlapping structural, situational, and dispositional barriers, including financial insecurity, rigid childcare eligibility, limited transport, welfare dependency, low confidence, and educational trauma. Digital exclusion and limited interest in narrowly defined basic skills were also evident, with participants instead valuing flexible, local, and emotionally supportive learning that recognised informal and experiential knowledge. Community informants reinforced these insights, highlighting fragmented local services and the normalisation of welfare reliance. Despite these barriers, women expressed strong motivation to learn when opportunities were practical, relational, and affirming, such as parenting or group-based courses. The study concludes that while the National Lifelong Learning Strategy 2023-2030 aims to widen participation, its strong employability focus, risks overlooking women’s complex realities. Expanding the concept of basic skills to include emotional resilience, communication, and community-embedded provision is essential for fostering genuine empowerment and inclusion.