This study looks at Nepal’s stated commitment to education as it relates to street children. In recent years Nepal has participated in the World Conference on Education For All, signed the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, and started an educational campaign with the slogan “Education For All.” Street children face myriad problems, including hunger, inadequate shelter, lack of health and legal services, HIV/AIDS, and insufficient educational resources. This article aims to identify educational needs of street children, as well as the gaps, challenges, and best practices of programs and policies already in place in Nepal.
The chapters in this study outline the topics as follows:
Chapter 1: Background
The rationale and purpose of the study.
Chapter 2: Research Methodology
Interviews, data collection, structure of the study.
Chapter 3: Street Children in Nepal
Over of situation, barriers to education.
Chapter 4: Education in Nepal
Educational system, structure, administration, non-formal education, NGO involvement.
Chapter 5: NGO’s Case Study Reports on the NFE (Non-Formal Education) Practices for Street Children
Case studies as presented by participating NGO’s.
Chapter 6: Government Policy on Basic NFE and EFA (Education For All)
Goals, approaches, targets, strategies, policies, programs.
Chapter 7: Implications of Education For All and Non-Formal Education in Nepal
Issues and challenges influencing education in Nepal.
Chapter 8: Voice of Street Children
Case studies.
Chapter 9: Conclusions and Recommendations
The study finds that while education is a priority, it is not universally distributed. Frequent government changes have contributed to the difficulties, as well as discrimination against low castes, ethnic minorities, children with disabilities, and girls. However, Nepal has taken major steps in promoting education, including its national campaign, ‘Education for All.’ The number of street children is growing exponentially, and HIV/AIDS is a major factor in working with street children. There are a total of 19 recommendations in the article reflecting the findings on government focus, spending, and structure. The recommendations also address the needs of street children, special issues for this population, coordination and cooperation of NGO’s, and gaps in current services.
©CWSUK, Child Welfare Scheme UK