Community Engagement and Fundraising as Alternative Strategies for Funding Adult Education in Nigeria

Abstract

Adult and Non-Formal Education (ANFE) is a cornerstone for personal empowerment, workforce development, and national socio-economic transformation in Nigeria. However, chronic underfunding by the state has hindered the implementation and sustainability of literacy and vocational programs. This paper defines the concept of adult education. It also discussed on the Overview of Nigeria’s Current Adult Education System. It identified challenges faced by adult education including finance, budget opacity, lack of political will, and resource diversion The paper outlines the multifaceted benefits of lifelong learning with regarding to adult education.. It also critically examines community engagement and fundraising as viable alternative strategies for financing adult education in Nigeria. It highlights grass-roots advocacy, corporate social responsibility (CSR), philanthropy, and service-based income-generating initiatives as pivotal mechanisms to bridge the fiscal deficit. The paper concludes that achieving Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4) requires a transition toward a shared-responsibility model of educational financing. Key recommendations include embedding legal frameworks to mandate localized budget allocations, involving community donors in monitoring and evaluation teams, and promoting service-oriented community ownership.