Creating links between basic education and training
Good quality education for all (EFA) takes into account the entire education and training system, including both the formal and non-formal sectors. It is therefore essential to recognise the fundamental role played by both these sectors when implementing education for all.
Basic education typically includes the pre-primary and primary levels as well as part of the post-primary level (lower secondary education). It also includes non-formal basic education programmes for uneducated children, young people and adults, such as literacy, basic education for adults, “second chance” education, and schools for working children. These various forms of education often include elements of vocational skills development (VSD). VSD encompasses all organised learning processes used to develop basic skills (e.g. how to learn), technical skills, social skills (e.g. teamwork) and personal skills (e.g. self-confidence). These skills should ensure the sustainable long-term integration of individuals into the formal or informal economy under decent working conditions on either an employed or self-employed basis. While VSD is essential for eradicating poverty and promoting economic development, it is basic education that lays the foundations for acquiring knowledge and vocational skills and for lifelong learning.
SDC recognises the links between cognitive knowledge and the development of vocational skills and capacities. It is therefore committed to helping create bridges between non-formal and formal education programmes and to ensuring that there are transitions between basic education and VSD so that individuals can continue their education and achieve social and economic integration.
Documents and further information:
SDC Guidelines for Basic Education and Vocational Skills Development (eng in preparation)
Topic of the triennial meeting of the Association for the Development of Education in Africa (ADEA): “Promoting critical knowledge, skills and qualifications for sustainable development in Africa: how to design and implement an effective response through education and training systems”
