Non-formal and informal education are considered critical sub-sectors for ensuring opportunities for lifelong learning to all Thai people. In this regard, major areas of focus of the Office of the Non-Formal and Informal Education (ONIE) have been: (i) provision of functional literacy; (ii) general non-formal education (second chance education for those who were unable to complete formal schooling); (iii) non-formal vocational and technical training for practical skills; (iv) provision of non-formal education for pre-school children. On average, over 3,500,000 learners are involved in non-formal and informal education each year (UNESCO 2011). ONIE is central organization in promoting the support and coordination of non-formal and informal education. It makes recommendation for policies, plans and strategies, promote collaboration among individuals and organizations for network parties, monitor, inspection and evaluation for implementation and so on. There are other government departments and ministries which have been carrying out non-formal education activities, such as the Ministry of Labour through regional institutions and provincial skill training centers. Private voluntary agencies and various foundations have also been involved in the organizations of non-formal education. Industrial factories have also organized non-formal education programmes for their employees (IBE 2011).
The main challenges and issues facing this sub-sector are about reaching those in the most remote areas and those of minority backgrounds who lack access to formal education and schooling. There is a need to review and reformulate working definitions of quality to attain a balance between standards required and flexibility in response to the diverse needs and conditions of learners. In addition, an effective strategy should be formulated to handle the critical issues and challenges of equity and quality in non-formal and informal education in Thailand (UNESCO 2011).
