The Federal Government has introduced a new National Policy on Alternative Learning Pathways aimed at expanding educational access for out-of-school children, youths, and adults across Nigeria.
The initiative was announced in Abuja by the Director of Literacy and Development at the National Commission for Mass Literacy, Adult and Non-Formal Education (NMEC), Dr. John Edeh, who said the policy was designed to bridge long-standing gaps in the country’s non-formal education system.
According to him, the reform will help streamline learning processes, improve certification systems, and create flexible routes that allow learners to transition into higher education or vocational training more easily.
A key feature of the policy is the reduction in learning duration, enabling individuals who missed formal schooling to complete equivalent educational levels in about three to four years instead of the traditional timeline.
Officials say the programme is expected to significantly reduce the number of out-of-school youths while also contributing to efforts to address unemployment, insecurity, and other social challenges linked to low literacy levels.
The policy has already been declared operational, with stakeholders in the education sector urged to ensure full implementation and compliance.
