Context plays a key role in the design and development of educational opportunities, particularly for underprivileged communities--and in this study, out-of-school children (OOSC). Several contextual factors, notably "access" and "equity," differentiate school education in developing countries from that in developed countries,…

This article is the fourth in a series arguing that there is serious mismeasurement of enrolment in early childhood development (ECD) and in the early grades of education systems in many countries, especially, and most damagingly, in those making the most progress on access to schooling and in the sustainable development goals. Other reports have…

The outbreak of COVID-19 worldwide has presented an unprecedented challenge for the equity-in-education agenda, especially in developing countries of the Global South (e.g., the English-speaking Caribbean). This article examines the impact school closures have had in Jamaica and Barbados, and highlights the emerging disparities the global pandemic…

Describes the aims of the external degree program at the University of Zambia and the courses available to external-degree students. Discusses the advantages and disadvantages of integrating the external-degree program into the academic functions of a conventional university, arguing that an alternative model is not practical at present. (GEA)

Suggests nonformal education can be defined only with respect to its function in a specific context, its objectives established on an individual basis. Argues that it cannot be centralized or institutionalized. Includes nonformal education as a method of broadening access to education, providing second chance programs, and serving a Gandhian…

Today more children and their parents in developing countries are without any educational opportunities because of the expense and elitist character of traditional education programs. Examples from Bangladesh show how educational opportunities can be broadened by using facilities more intensively and in innovative ways. (Author/IS)

Describes the Universitas Terbuka, Indonesia's open university. Established in 1983, the university (1) provides better access to higher education, primarily for recent secondary-school graduates; (2) trains large numbers of students from culturally and economically underdeveloped areas; and (3) allows secondary-school teachers to obtain the full…

Suggests that the means to eliminate illiteracy are available in Africa if nations devise and implement a strategy of action based on an effective political will and adopting a methodical, rational approach. Discusses the current situation, negative factors, repercussions on development, and future demands. Argues that promoting basic education…

Describes the development and current status of educational systems in 14 small nations or self-governing states in the South Pacific. Indicates that a primary concern is educational access and equity. Contends that the driving force behind all educational endeavors is to balance economic development with preservation of the cultural heritage.…

Analyzes UNESCO's policy initiatives over the past 50 years in recognition of International Literacy Year (1990). Targets adult education, functional literacy, and lifelong learning as policy initiative milestones. Stresses the intrinsic value of literacy and universal access to education. Observes that the egalitarian distribution of knowledge…

Clarifies the concept of universal basic education. Highlights the need for performance criteria and ways to measure literacy attainment. Identifies issues related to improving primary education, seeing adult literacy as its necessary complement. Underscores the substantial resources required to achieve universal basic education. (CH)

Links literacy for women with justice and empowerment. Cites that 70 percent of illiterates are female. Stresses that this statistic reflects the strength of patriarchal attitudes and male-dominated literacy campaigns. Presents three case studies to show cultural differences in women's literacy issues. Suggests strategies for achieving justice…

Considers the problematic nature of the role of the state in developing nations' education, specifically Latin American education. Analyzes several major challenges: (1) reconciling bureaucratic efficiency with educational equity; (2) allocating dwindling resources to ensure both basic adult education and higher education capable of producing…

Discusses the status of women's education throughout the world. Describes an increased access to education, progress through legislation, and women's studies. Emphasizes the concentration of women in education in the lower grades and teaching roles rather than in higher education or top administrative levels. Addresses problems such as sex role,…