Based on GRALE 4 and the data collected from 18 Arab states, this regional report assesses the status of adult learning and education (ALE) in the region, with a focus on participation from the perspective of equity and inclusion. The report shows that ALE has progressed in the region since 2015, in particular in the area of policy, governance and participation. However, challenges with regard to policy implementation, the inclusion of vulnerable groups, quality and funding persist.
The region has reported remarkable progress in increasing women’s participation between 2015 to 2018, but a discernible pattern of low participation persists among vulnerable and marginalized groups, in particular refugees and migrants and adults with disabilities. The progress made in recognizing, validating and accrediting the non-formal and informal learning of youth and adults in the region is not enough to realize the potentially wide benefits of adult learning and education.
The report suggests that good governance, supportive political will and adequate funding are key to fully realizing the potential of adult learning and education for economic, social, technological, and societal transformation. It is hoped that the findings of the report can provide some benchmarks and be a source of inspiration for policy-makers and stakeholders in Arab countries to further enhance the provision, quality and relevance of ALE in order to build a sustainable and resilient future.
- Author/Editor: UNESCO Institute for Lifelong Learning
- Trends in Adult Learning and Education in the Arab States – Findings from the Fourth Global Report on Adult Learning and Education (GRALE 4)
- UNESCO Institute for Lifelong Learning, 2020
- ISBN 978-92-820-1237-6
- Available in: English, Arabic
