The Non-Formal Education Program

Dedicated citizens engaged in their communities continue to develop organizations and associations in Egypt. There still remains, however, the need to build the capacity of community groups and non-governmental organizations to advocate for community services and provide assistance to those in need when necessary. Women and the poor remain marginalized and need the skills to organize and demand a say in the decisions made in their communities.

Egyptian girls and young women, ages 9 to 25, participate in non-formal education activities varying from health to creative arts.

Although education is considered one of the country's highest priorities, children in poor, rural areas often receive an inferior education leaving them inadequately prepared for the future. In addition, poor families often find the cost of education beyond their means. Consequently, the illiteracy rate in Upper Egypt is a staggering 64 percent and the female school enrollment rate is only 70 percent of that of males.

Catholic Relief Services' Non-Formal Education program attempts to address these issues of civil society development and education in 60 communities with the goal of reaching 27,000 girls and young women by the end of 2004.

How We Do This Project and What Are Our Accomplishments to Date?

The Non-Formal Education program aims to strengthen civil society in communities by promoting community nominated representatives to serve on interfaith committees. These committees address local issues and successfully lobby authorities for service enhancements or policy changes.

Girls and young women, ages 9 to 25, participate in non-formal education activities varying from health to creative arts. These programs seek to bridge the gap between formal education and the skills needed to live a dignified life in the rural communities of Upper Egypt. So far 5,500 girls and young women in 47 communities have participated in the project.

Background of the Project

The Non-Formal Education Program was developed to help build the capacity of girls, women and the poor to advocate for services needed in their communities and to improve their educational opportunities.