Non-Formal Education: the only ‘second chance’ for many working children

By Macarena Aguilar

Myanmar’s 2014 census found that 20 percent of the country’s school age children are out of school, with Kayin and other conflict affected States topping the list. 

Many of these children choose to work. Others are driven by poverty to help their families make ends meet. Too many end up in hazardous work settings. Today, child labour is widespread across Myanmar with some 1.2 million children aged 5-17 currently working.

Thirteen year old Arkar Soe is one them. 

©UNICEF Myanmar/2017/Khine Zar Mon

UNICEF supported Non-Formal Primary Education (NFPE) offers second chance education for out-of-school children in Mon State

© UNICEF Myamar/2013/Myo Thame
Thar Thar Aung in the NFPE class in NO (2) Basic Primary School, Kyauktan Ward in Mawlamyaing

 

By Ye Lwin

 

Mawlamyaing, Mon State, Myanmar, 29 July 2013:  Thar Thar Aung 13, is happy to have his dream come true.  As a school drop-out he had little hope for a second chance until he got back on track with his primary education through Non Formal Primary Education (NFPE) programme.