Exploring Challenges in Advancing Lifelong Learning in Basic Education: AComparative Study of Formal and Non-Formal Institutions

Abstract

Lifelong learning is recognised over the globe. There is an increased realization that knowledge, skills, and competencies obtained through formal education are not sufficient to tackle the ever-increasing learning needs of learners in contemporary societies. Since Pakistan is facing lack of seriousness of the issues of adult education, and out of school children’s education. The need for time is to set up and expand lifelong learning to address the educational needs of out-of-school children and illiterate adults. Being flexible in nature, non-formal education can facilitate the education and training needs of many unprivileged segments of our society. Keeping in view this situation, this study was conceived to explore challenges that hinder to foster lifelong learning opportunities in basic education in formal and nonformal educational institutions. The population comprised on FE and NFE teachers of primary level. A total 240 teachers were randomly selected from these institutions which were based in Rawalpindi and Islamabad regions. Researcher collected data through self-developed questionnaire which was validate and pilot tested. Data was collected through personal contact and google docs. Results showed that financial and social challenges hinder lifelong learning to promote basic education. The study concluded that challenges are not sector specific rathe deep rooted and system-specific which needs to be addressed through dissemination of knowledge and devising a sound framework to overcome these