Breaking illiteracy barriers through Non-Formal Education program

Education

Imagine being an 18 years old girl  unable to read or write.

Eyni, a resident of Suqa Xolana Village in Heliwa district is among the 48% of the female in Somalia aged 6 and above that have never been in school. As the only daughter among 4 siblings, she spent her days tending to home chores while her three brothers went to school, an example of the great gender disparities in education reflected in the Gender Parity Index from the Somalia National Bureau Statistics (SNBS) 2023

Despite the limited resources and opportunities at her disposal, Eyni enrolled for Non-Formal Education (NFE) at the Mohamed Ali Ahmed TVET center in May 2024 to learn how to write and gain numerical skills. Each experience became a lesson, each challenge was a stepping stone toward enlightenment.

"The NFE classes have been incredibly beneficial to me. I have been a dedicated NFE learner for the past three months, and I have experienced significant transformation. When I first started, I was  unable to write or read. However, with the consistent NFE sessions, I have now acquired the ability to both read and write in my language. I am thrilled to say that I now enjoy full communication capabilities. Initially, I struggled immensely with these tasks, finding it difficult to decipher written texts or create written messages. Nonetheless, through determination, I have successfully overcome this obstacle. Today, I can confidently communicate using the written form of my language."

The Non-Formal Education (NFE) objectives of the SETS II project (Strengthening Education and Training in Somalia) are centered around providing essential literacy and numeracy skills to learners who may not have access to traditional educational pathways. The project aims to bridge educational gaps by offering targeted instruction in fundamental reading, writing, and arithmetic. This initiative is designed to equip learners with the basic skills necessary to improve their daily lives and future opportunities. By focusing on these core competencies, the project addresses critical educational needs and fosters a foundation for lifelong learning.

"I dream of continuing my education through secondary school and ultimately reaching the university level. Education, to me, is a journey that deeply resonates with the heart and soul. I hold onto the hope that one day my dreams will indeed become a reality."

In the Banadir region, the SETS II project co-funded by EU will implement a six-month Non - Formal Education program across two designated centers, utilizing a curriculum approved by UNESCO. This curriculum is specifically tailored to address the needs of non-formal learners and ensure a high standard of education that aligns with international best practices. By adhering to this curriculum, the project not only provides structured and effective learning experiences, but also supports the development of learners in a manner that is both relevant and responsive to their educational needs.

 

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