ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has reported a significant 20% surge in enrollments within the non-formal education (NFE) sector, as revealed in the latest 2023–24 National Non-Formal Education Statistical Report published by the Pakistan Institute of Education (PIE). This growth signals renewed national interest in flexible, low-cost learning models, especially for marginalized communities.
Non-Formal Education: A Second-Chance Opportunity
Often termed as a “second-chance” educational model, non-formal education is designed for out-of-school children (OOSC) and adult learners who have been left behind by the formal education system. With monthly costs ranging between Rs 1,000 and Rs 1,500 per child, these centers offer an affordable alternative for families unable to afford formal schooling.
Non-formal education centers are community-based, flexible in structure, and adapted to local contexts—ideal for children in rural, remote, or underserved areas.
Key Figures from the 2023–24 Report
- Total non-formal education centers: 35,427 (nationwide)
- Total learners enrolled: 1.29 million (20% rise from last year)
- Female enrollment: 57%
- Female teaching workforce: 82%
- Adult literacy centers: 3,382 centers serving 80,093 learners
- Refugee children enrolled (mostly Afghan): 10,181
This gender distribution marks a positive trend toward gender equity, with women not only leading the classroom but also forming a majority of learners.
Innovative Approaches: ALP Middle-Tech Model
One of the standout initiatives highlighted in the report is the Accelerated Learning Programme (ALP) Middle-Tech model, which combines academic learning with vocational training. This hybrid model addresses dropout rates by making education more practical, engaging, and relevant for older learners, especially adolescents and young adults.
The ALP Middle-Tech model has a 70% completion rate, one of the highest in alternative education programs, demonstrating its effectiveness in both learning outcomes and employability.
Bridging Literacy Gaps and Regional Disparities
Despite commendable progress, the report underscores critical challenges. There are stark regional inequalities, especially in rural Balochistan, where only 31% of women are literate, compared to the national female literacy average of around 51%.
The Pakistan Economic Survey and UN Human Development reports further highlight these issues:
- Pakistan’s HDI Rank (2024): 164 out of 193 countries
- Human Capital Index (HCI) Rank: 144 out of 173
- Education access and gender inequality remain key barriers to human development
These figures reinforce the urgent need to prioritize education reforms, especially in remote and underprivileged regions.
NFE’s Role in Supporting Refugees and Adults
Pakistan continues to host one of the largest refugee populations globally, particularly from Afghanistan. The inclusion of over 10,000 refugee children into non-formal education frameworks indicates the flexibility and humanitarian value of these programs.
Furthermore, the growing number of adult literacy centers signifies a broader commitment to lifelong learning, helping youth and adults gain basic literacy and vocational skills essential for economic independence.
Recommendations and Future Path
The report recommends:
- Expansion of ALP Middle-Tech programs, especially in rural areas
- Greater investment in teacher training, particularly for female educators
- Scaling up community engagement to reduce dropout rates
- Improved data tracking and monitoring systems for non-formal centers
To meet SDG 4 (Quality Education) and reduce the number of out-of-school children (currently estimated at over 22 million), Pakistan must strengthen partnerships between government, NGOs, and international donors.
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