These activities are supported by Multi Sectoral Working Groups for Adult Education in each region

THE STATUS OF FORMAL AND NON-FORMAL EDUCATION, TRAINING AND AWARENESS PROGRAMMES IN THE GAMBIA AND THEIR PROSPECTS FOR SUPPORTING PRIORITY CLIMATE CHANGE POLICIES AND PROJECTS IN THE CONTEXT OF ARTICLE 6 OF THE UNITED NATIONS FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE. 1.0 Introduction This paper provides a general background to aspects of education, training in the formal and non-formal education system of The Gambia, which can be used as the basis for discussion of the current opportunities, challenges or strategies that could be considered in developing a national strategy and work plan for climate change policies and programs. 11.1 Demography The Gambia, a signatory of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, is a densely populated country (128 persons per square kilometre) and has a population growth rate (approximately 2.8%), and an estimated population of 1.36 million. Average life expectancy has risen to 60 years from 47 years in 1988. Access to health facilities has increased. Regular immunisation programmes have been carried out. Only half of the population has access to safe water. Almost half the population is under the age of 15 years. The population is increasingly concentrated in urban ares, the illiteracy rate among the 15-39 year old age group is estimated at 46.5% based on available data. The illiteracy rate is high especially among the women. Poverty is widespread, particularly in rural areas where an ...