Paper Title
EFFECTIVE LEADERSHIP STRATEGIES FOR FOSTERING LIFELONG LEARNING IN EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION

Abstract
Strong leadership and effective monitoring are foundational to fostering lifelong learning in early childhood education. Lifelong learning entails the continuous acquisition of knowledge and skills, extending far beyond the boundaries of formal schooling. In this context, leadership plays a key role in embedding this mindset into the teaching and learning process from the earliest stages of education. School leaders empower educators through guidance, support, and inspiration, helping to create environments that prioritize continuous growth, adaptability, and professional development. Meanwhile, monitoring complements leadership by evaluating the success of implemented strategies, ensuring accountability, and driving ongoing improvements. This study aims to identify and analyze the most effective leadership strategies that promote lifelong learning within early childhood education institutions. The guiding research question is: “What leadership strategies contribute most effectively to fostering lifelong learning in early childhood education settings?” The methodology follows a mixed-methods approach. Quantitative data were collected through a questionnaire completed by 100 early childhood educators, while qualitative data were gathered through semi-structured interviews with 10 school leaders in public preschool institutions in Prishtina. It focused on educators’ professional development experiences, leadership support, and institutional mechanisms that foster lifelong learning. Preliminary findings indicate that clear communication, personalized professional development opportunities, and collaborative leadership models are key in establishing a culture of lifelong learning. Furthermore, effective monitoring mechanisms ensure that leadership efforts remain aligned with educational goals and are continuously refined. This research offers actionable recommendations for building inclusive, dynamic, and future-ready learning environments that embed lifelong learning at their core, contributing to educational excellence on a broader scale. Keywords - Education, Leadership, Lifelong Learning, Strategies, Teaching, Professional Development, Monitoring