The Future of Adult and Lifelong Learning in the Age of AI

The Future of Adult and Lifelong Learning in the Age of AI

Learning, Working and Thriving in the Age of AI

Join The Open University's flagship, in-person AI conference at 2026.

Bringing together leaders from education, industry, government, research and technology, this conference explores how AI is transforming learning, skills and the future of work. Through keynote speakers, practical case studies and cross-sector discussion, delegates will examine the opportunities and challenges AI presents for lifelong learning, workforce development and organisational transformation, with a focus on responsible, ethical and inclusive innovation.

Why Attend?

• Hear from leading voices in AI, education and workforce transformation
• Discover practical examples of AI innovation in action
• Explore the future skills and capabilities needed in an AI-enabled world
• Learn how organisations are approaching responsible and human-centred AI adoption
• Connect with professionals from education, industry, government, research and technology

Register Now

Places are free but limited, and advance registration is required. Secure your place today.

Previous Conferences

This conference builds on a successful series of Open University events exploring AI, lifelong learning and the future of work.

• 2025:
• 2024:

Partners

Hosted by The Open University as part of and sponsored by

Info: Welcome to the event by the Chairs, and then introduction to the importance of Adult and Lifelong Learning in the Age of AI by The Open University Pro-Vice-Chancellor Learning, Teaching and Student Experience - Professor Ian Pickup and Pro-Vice-Chancellor Research and Innovation - Mark Brandon.

Info: As artificial intelligence transforms the workplace, the relationship between education and employment is being fundamentally redefined. In this keynote, Tom Way, CEO of Hays UK & Ireland, explores how businesses, educators and individuals must adapt to a future where learning is no longer a one-time event, but a lifelong necessity.
Drawing on Hays' perspective at the intersection of talent, skills and workforce transformation, Tom examines why organisations are increasingly hiring for capabilities rather than job titles, how career paths are becoming more fluid, and what this means for workforce development. He discusses the growing importance of adaptability, continuous learning and human-centred skills in an AI-enabled economy, and why stronger partnerships between employers and education providers are critical to future success.
Join Tom as he explores how people can move beyond keeping pace with change to leading it.

Info: In this closing keynote of the morning, John Domingue will share how The Open University is harnessing AI to support learning, teaching and organisational innovation. Exploring both the opportunities and responsibilities of AI, he will highlight emerging tools, research and initiatives that are helping shape the University's approach to purposeful and responsible adoption. The session will provide a gateway to the lunchtime exhibition, where delegates can discover and discuss AI innovations being developed across the OU.

Info: In this opening session of the afternoon, Esther Spring will explore how The Open University is approaching AI adoption in practice. Covering the University's strategic and people-focused work, including the AI Steering Group, Digital & AI Confidence and Capability Programme, and the OpenLearn Microsoft AI Hub, Esther will share insights into building confidence, capability and responsible AI use at scale. The session will invite delegates to consider what successful AI adoption means for their own organisations, learners and communities.

Info: As AI continues to reshape the way we learn, work and live, how can individuals, organisations and communities prepare for the opportunities and challenges ahead?
Bringing together perspectives from education, industry and policy, this interactive panel will explore the future skills, capabilities and mindsets needed in an AI-enabled world. Panellists will discuss the role of lifelong learning in supporting workforce transformation, organisational readiness and inclusive growth, while considering how we can ensure that the benefits of AI are realised responsibly and for the benefit of all.

Info: Artificial intelligence is profoundly transforming the world that young people are entering, but is education evolving quickly enough to keep pace? This keynote explores how AI is reshaping expectations of learning, assessment, skills and employability across schools, colleges and universities.
Drawing on examples of innovative practice and real-world experiences from across the education sector, Emma will challenge assumptions about what young people need to thrive in an AI-enabled future. She will examine what is already working well, where barriers remain, and what a more relevant, responsive and future-focused education system could look like.
Central to the discussion is the role of student voice, not as an afterthought, but as a vital influence on how AI is understood, adopted and governed in education. The session will encourage educators, leaders and policymakers to consider whether we are genuinely preparing young people for the future, or continuing to preserve systems design

Event venue & nearby stays

The Open University, The Hub Theatre,, Milton Keynes, United Kingdom

Concerts, fests, parties, meetups — all the happenings, one place.

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