Chapter Adult Learning and Education for Poverty Alleviation in Africa. Challenges and Opportunities for Women

Abstract

This chapter examines the contributions of Adult Learning and Education (ALE) towards empowerment and poverty reduction amongst women in Africa. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) emphasise the need for countries of the world to ensure that poverty in all its forms is ended everywhere. SDGs 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 10 especially connect to the focus of this chapter. Despite the implementation of various programmes by African governments towards SDGs attainment, a substantial number of African women still live in poverty in many countries. ALE as an instrument for poverty alleviation has the potentials to provide inclusive and equitable educational opportunities for women. However, ALE in its efforts to empower women for development is confronted with numerous challenges. The chapter highlights the opportunities provided by ALE in facilitating poverty alleviation and promoting active citizenship among African women. The chapter concludes with a brief acknowledgement of the role of Lalage Bown in the history of women empowerment in Africa.