Transition from Nonformal to Formal Education in Bangladesh

This study identified transitional challenges faced by nonformal primary graduates moving to mainstream formal high schools. Nonformal schools run by NGOs give disadvantaged children access to basic education in Bangladesh and prepare them to enter or re-enter into formal education sector. However, there is significant dropout amongst students following this transition, despite the high quality of learning in nonformal schools. In this longitudinal study, cohorts of young people in two geographical areas were followed, using in-depth case studies to explore the contexts of particular schools and transition between them. There is evidence of academic failure because of transitional challenges faced by the nonformal primary graduates at formal high schools, not simply due to poverty. The study identified priorities for better support to students from the nonformal education sector such that they can go on to achieve educational and other successes. Through this study, disadvantaged students have contributed directly to the emerging debate about nonformal education, to the contemporary humanitarian approach of educational development and to theories of educational transition.