Journal of Academic Research for Humanities (JARH) is a double-blind peer-review, Open Free Access, online Multidisciplinary Research Journal
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Vol. 4 No. 1 (2024)
The International "Journal of Academic Research for Humanities"

Research Articles

Feasibility of Opening Non-Formal Schools in Afghanistan: An In-Depth Analysis of Stakeholders’ Perspective

Published 27-03-2024

  • Hazrat Usman Mashwani
    • ,
  • Syed Manzoor Hussain Shah

Hazrat Usman Mashwani
PhD Scholar, Hazara University, KPK, Pakistan,

Syed Manzoor Hussain Shah
Professor, Hazara University, KPK, Pakistan

Abstract

The conventional Formal School (FS) system in Afghanistan is facing challenges in the comprehensive enrolment of school-age children, especially in the disadvantaged areas of the country. Currently, around 4 million school-age children are out of school in the country (UNICEF, 2021). This study aimed to explore the feasibility of opening Non-Formal Schools (NFSs) as an alternative approach to enrolling out-of-school children in Kunar province, Afghanistan. Employing a case study qualitative design, 62 key stakeholders such as directors of education, directors of Hajj and Islamic Affairs, headmasters, teachers, mosque imams, and parents were purposively selected as the participants of the study. Semi-structured interviews were used for data collection and the collected data was thematically analysed. The findings revealed that opening NFSs in Kunar province is feasible. This assertion is grounded in the discerned educational accessibility gap and the favorable attitudes toward the opening of NFSs in the locale. Additionally, the study posits practical venues for instituting non-formal schools such as mosques, guesthouses, and Formal Schools (FSs) in the evening shift as Evening Schools (ESs) in Kunar Province, Afghanistan. The study recommends the Ministry of Education (MoE), Afghanistan, establish a cost-effective NFS system using community places like mosques and guesthouses to address primary school inadequacies promote enrolment of out-of-school children, and ensure Education for All (EFA) in Kunar province, Afghanistan.

Keywords

Education for all, Non-Formal Education, Feasibility of NFSs, Stakeholders’ Perspectives, Kunar Province, Afghanistan

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