Competences for active longevity: a comparative study of Nigeria, Pakistan and Italy

Moving beyond the traditional focus of active ageing, this paper introduces the construct of active ageing for longevity from the perspective of learning across the life cycle under LifeComp, the European framework of life competences. It aims to compare active ageing policies, programmes, and competences across Nigeria, Pakistan and Italy, and align them with the new construct. Drawing from the international comparative framework of macro, meso, and micro levels, this study analyses active ageing at three levels using the method of document analysis. The key findings show that across the three countries, the focus of active ageing remains on health, well-being, civic participation, and financial security, guided by the WHO framework, with limited evidence of transformation in either policies, service provision or competence development from a pedagogical perspective. The study showcases the scope of integrating life competences from a pedagogical standpoint in supporting the transition period from work to retirement