The government has noted a decrease in the number of learners enrolling for adult education in the country.
According to an economic survey report conducted by the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics, the enrolment for females has reduced compared to males.
“Total adult education enrolment decreased by 13.7 per cent from 209,082 in 2019 to 180,395 in 2020,” the report reads.
Female adult learners recorded the highest decrease of 15.8 per cent compared to their male counterparts at 9.2 per cent.
In 2019, 65,497 male adults enrolled for adult education while 59,458 enrolled for the same in 2020.
Female adults who enrolled for adult education in 2019 were 143,585 compared to 120,937 who enrolled in 2020.
The report which is produced annually, further indicates that Nairobi county recorded the highest enrolment of adult learners at 14,655 in 2020 and 13,427 in 2019.
Lamu county recorded the lowest enrolment of 853 in 2020 and 736 in 2019.
The Ministry of Education recently noted a drop in the number of illiterate adults, attaining 78 per cent literacy rate compared with 61.5 per cent in 2007 in the country.
The notable improvement was attributed to sustained Adult Education programme, free primary and day secondary education leading to enhanced access.
The improvement was attributed to growth and adoption of digital platforms for transaction of all manner of business, creating more difficulties for people who can’t read and write.
A total of 120,937 female learners enrolled for adult education while another 59,458 male learners enrolled for the same in 2020.
Adult and Continuing Education directorate in collaboration with Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development embarked on curriculum reforms aimed at coming up with a new curriculum for the youth and adult learners.
The curriculum sought to expand access and improve quality of adult learning since the learning will be based on learner’s needs while focusing on skills development.
The Directorate of ACE is responsible for coordination and management of programmes and activities in the adult education.
It also formulates and implements ACE policies while promoting multiple literacy through alternative provision of basic adult education programmes.
-Edited by SKanyara
