Non-formal education programmes in Kenya are unique because they are flexible and take cognizance of the difficult conditions under which urban slums and remote rural areas children live. Non-formal education centers carter for needy children from the poorest, poverty stricken households, giving them an opportunity to at least getting basic education.
Challenges Facing Non-Formal Education In Kenya:
There are many challenges facing non-formal education centers but I will mention just a few here.
1. Lack of clear national policy framework to guide and regulate various players in the sub-sector. Most non-formal centers are started by people who love children and have the call to serve but lack management training to run these learning institutions professionally. The government had no policy framework to regulate, guide and facilitate the development of these important players in the education sector until recently.
2. Lack Of Reliable Data on Out-of-School Children And Those Attending NFE Programs.
3. Lack of Clear Accreditation Procedures
4. Lack of qualified and competent teachers. Majority of non-formal education centers can't afford to hire trained professionals due to lack of funds. These centers manage their programs on meager financial resources because they don't have government support.
5. Apart from the affected communities there is a negative societal attitude towards non-formal education centers in Kenya.
6. Inadequate and sub-standard teaching and learning materials.
7. Lack of monitoring and evaluation mechanism.
These challenges massively affect access to quality and relevant basic education for millions of poverty stricken Kenyan children.
The Author:
Steve Wanjie is the founder of Wisdom Nest Community Education Programme (WINCEP). His organization runs Wisdom Nest Primary School which is a non-formal education center for children aged between 3 to 16 years. You can support Steve's school through Mr Daniel Rossi Five With Drive Canada.
