Ghana: Towards a new non-formal education policy

Ghana is currently in the process of drafting a new non-formal education policy that, once implemented, will help provide literacy and basic skills training to the estimated 29% of its citizens aged 15 years and above who lack literacy skills. Ghana’s current policy on literacy and non-formal education (NFE), the ‘Mass Literacy and Social Change Programme’ (MASSLIP), dates back to 1998. It is necessary to develop a new non-formal education policy that fits within the framework of lifelong learning. At the request of the Ghanaian Non-Formal Education Division (NFED), the UNESCO Institute for Lifelong Learning (UIL) is assisting with the development of this policy.

New policy advantages

The revision process started in May 2015 with a workshop organized by UIL, which ultimately led to the finalization of a draft non-formal education policy in October. The revision process has involved national consultations with all stakeholders from government to grass-roots levels. These stakeholders have provided relevant and practical input which will contribute to successful advocacy and implementation of the policy once it is adopted.

The primary goal of this non-formal education policy is to provide guidance to various education actors on effectively implementing NFE programmes within the framework of lifelong learning. Once implemented, the policy will enhance equitable access and improve the quality of learning opportunities for learners in all age groups, thereby facilitating the effective implementation of the right to ‘Education For All’, as enshrined in the Ghanaian constitution. UIL will continue supporting the ministry until the policy is finalized, adopted and implemented.