2.4 Non-Formal Education and Interaction with the community Non-formal education simply refers to the More often than not, non-formal education educational activities occurring outside the provides fresh perspectives on multiple conformity of formal schools or institutes. subjects for participants, which is difficult It is usually offered to ensure the right to acquire from the fixed set of knowledge of access to education to all. Non-formal presented by formal education. In other education caters for people of all ages, cases, non-formal education also caters and is often associated with community to the learning needs of many people education, young-adult education or life- regarding social issues and practical life long education; it may be short in duration skills. Popular themes of non-formal and/or low intensity, and it is typically education include, but are not limited to: provided in the form of short courses, leadership, environmental protection, workshops or seminars. career orientation, active-citizenship and gender-equality. Non-formal education mostly leads to qualifications that are not recognized An important and familiar part of non- as formal qualifications by the relevant formal education is interaction with the national educational authorities or to no community. This part not only includes the qualifications, whatsoever. Especially, in introduction of a new type of education to certain developing countries, this type of a community, but also the facilitation of education is still undergoing skepticism, educational activities. The introductory which means it is not receiving enough section is often less of a problem when credit for its benefits, leading to the lack interacting with remote communities, of effort put into developing non-formal rather than urban communities. This is educational projects. due to the lack of all types of education within rural areas. Regarding non-formal As non-formal education is diverse, it education facilitation, there are multiple can be preparatory, supplementary or an ways to execute a course, workshop or excellent alternative to formal schooling seminar, but these are often made better for all people. Additionally, this form of with the presence of games or energizers. education can cover programs ranging from life skills, work skills to social and cultural development. With a wide range of possible topics, the advantages provided by non-formal education is extensive. 36