Infrastructural Needs for Establishing Non-Formal Schools in Afghanistan: A Case Study.

This study explored the infrastructural needs for the establishment of Non-Formal Schools (NFSs) within the existing setup of mosques and guesthouses of the community, aiming to enrol out-of-school children and alleviate illiteracy in Kunar province, Afghanistan. Employing a case study and qualitative research design, 62 research participants from the education sector and the Hajj and Islamic Affairs sector were purposively selected. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews and was analysed using thematic analysis. Findings revealed that generally buildings and carpets were the available facilities for the initiative; however, other essential facilities such as furniture, teaching materials, stationery, and qualified teaching staff were needed for the establishment of NFSs in the province. The study suggests that the government need to collaborate with non-governmental organizations and support the initiative by devising comprehensive policies, allocating sufficient funds, and providing the basic infrastructure facilities to open NFSs addressing the issue of illiteracy in the province and the country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]