NIACE and CESI announce merger plans

NIACE was the main advocacy body for adult learning in England and Wales and probably the largest body devoted to adult education in the world. On 1 January 2016 NIACE merged with the Centre for Economic and Social Inclusion to form a new organisation, the Learning and Work Institute.

The National Institute of Adult Continuing Education announced a merger with the Centre for Economic and Social Inclusion after striking an alliance in February 2015.

They aim to complete the merger next year to create an organisation that will champion employment, skills and learning for everyone, especially for the unemployed and those on low income.

NIACE chief executive David Hughes said: “Both organisations have contributed greatly across learning, skills and employment policy, research and development.

“Through our Strategic Alliance it has become clear that we can be an even stronger voice promoting citizenship, inclusive economic growth and a stronger and fairer society.”

Dave Simmonds, CESI’s chief executive, added: “In the next few months we want to talk with our supporters to share our vision of the new organisation and understand how together we can do more for all of our customers, members and supporters.”

Natalie Thornhill