Who Participates in Non-Formal Secondary Education and Why: Findings from Tanzania and Uganda

Abstract

This study examined the profiles of learners who participated in non-formal secondary education in four centres in Tanzania and Uganda. The aim was to know who participates in this type of education and the reasons for such participation. A comparative embedded-case study design was used to guide the study. The required sample size was obtained by means of various sampling techniques. Data were collected through questionnaires and focus group discussions. The findings indicate the dominance of learners aged between 21 and 30 coming from middle-income families. The reasons for participation are varied. The commonly mentioned reasons included prospects of higher education, prospects of a ' good ' job and promotion.  Keywords: Participation, Adult learning, Non-formal secondary education, Tanzania, Uganda.