3181. Views of Youth Non-Formal Education in Tunisia
- Publication Date:
- 08-2017
- Content Type:
- Special Report
- Institution:
- Arab Barometer
- Abstract:
- Tunisians harbor significant concern about the formal educational system in the country, but they are relatively satisfied with the government’s ongoing efforts to address educational needs based on results from the Arab Barometer survey. Since the vast 1 majority of Tunisians express concern that they are unable to provide their children with a good education, supplementary education programs outside the formal system offer a unique opportunity to more quickly address critical shortcomings in the existing system and provide students with the necessary skills to succeed in today’s economy. If such programs were more widely available, it is likely that many Tunisians would participate. Broadly speaking, although few Tunisians live in a family with a member who has directly participated in a non-formal education (NFE) program, the reputation of such programs is positive. Perhaps it is related to the perception that such programs can prepare Tunisians for employment, as this is the key consideration that Tunisians believe would lead youth to participate in such programs. Yet, Tunisians also make clear that receiving a tangible skill is not the only reason to participate in youth NFE programs program. In fact, there is a strong preference for educational modules that emphasize a number of skills that are often lacking in Tunisian classroom, including programs that seek to improve critical thinking and emotional intelligence. Tunisians across nearly all demographic backgrounds prefer programs that stress critical thinking over rote memorization and those that teach emotional intelligence and understanding the perspectives of others. Yet, there remain a number of important barriers to consider in designing non-formal programs focused on these skills. Most importantly, the cost of such programs represents a significant obstacle for many Tunisians. Ensuring that such programs are affordable is a key step, especially to encourage participation among Tunisians from a poorer background.
- Topic:
- Demographics, Education, Public Opinion, Higher Education, Academia, and Students
- Political Geography:
- Middle East, North Africa, and Tunisia