The C3L – Centre for Lifelong Learning at the University of Oldenburg – was founded twenty years ago. Since then, it has been dedicated to providing scientifically sound, practical and socially relevant further education throughout all stages of life. As an interface between the university, the world of work and society, the C3L designs learning that empowers people, develops organisations and promotes future-oriented skills.

This autumn, we will be celebrating our 20th anniversary with a varied programme and numerous event highlights.

The celebrations kick off with our festive anniversary event ‘The Future Begins with Education’ on 15 September 2026 from 5.30 pm at hallig hanken (August-Hanken-Str. 24, 26125 Oldenburg)

Programme

5.30 pm: Arrival and welcome drink ‘

’

6.00–6.45 pm: Welcome by Prof. Dr Olaf Zawacki-Richter, Executive Director of C3L

Opening remarks by

• Prof. Dr Ralph Bruder, President of the University of Oldenburg
• Jürgen Krogmann, Lord Mayor of Oldenburg
• Falko Mohrs, Lower Saxony’s Minister for Science and Culture
  

6.45–7.15 pm: Keynote by Dr Cornelia Hattula, Learning & Development Strategy and Transformation Consultancy

Rethinking learning: What skills and learning formats do we really need in an AI world?

If knowledge is available at any time – what do people actually still need to learn?

Artificial intelligence is fundamentally changing the way we learn, work and use knowledge. Information is accessible at any time; AI is becoming a thinking and learning partner.

This shifts the focus of education:
away from the mere transfer of knowledge towards skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, navigating information overload and the ability to continue learning throughout one’s life.

The keynote takes a look at this new reality of learning:

• What should people still be learning in future, and what perhaps no longer?
• Which learning formats work in a world where knowledge is constantly available?
• And how will this change universities, learning within organisations and individual learning over the course of a working life?
  

7.15–7.45 pm: Panel discussion with:

• Dr Cornelia Hattula
• Vera Weidemann, Head of Human Resources at EWE AG
• Prof. Dr Anke Hanft, Founder of the C3L – Centre for Lifelong Learning

moderated by Prof. Dr Klaus Fichter (C3L Executive Board)

From approx. 7.45 pm: Networking & buffet

In a time of profound change, characterised by digitalisation, artificial intelligence, new learning formats and evolving requirements, we would like to explore together how teaching and learning are evolving and what our vision is for the future of further education.In a world that is changing faster than ever before, lifelong learning is no longer a luxury – it is a prerequisite for social participation, professional success and personal development. For 20 years, C3L has been supporting people at every stage of life, empowering them to shape change and opening up new perspectives.

Who is the event aimed at?

The event is aimed at decision-makers from academia and politics, continuing education institutions, teachers, HR managers in companies, innovators and other interested parties.

Our partners and sponsors