This conference shall contribute to a regional policy framework and action plan for the recognition, validation and accreditation (RVA) of non-formal and informal learning in the context of alternative learning programmes Arab States.

This Regional Policy Framework will build on the work started by the UNESCO Beirut with developing RVA and Alternatively Learning Pathways in the Arab States. It is also building on the international meeting held in Beirut in January 2016 towards a policy framework or securing the recognition, regularisation and certification of non-formal education in the Arab regions. Pathways to Empowerment lays the essential groundwork for such RVA systems that can help the young and adults to enter or re-enter education, integrate into the world of work and participate fully in their communities.
It is within this framework that UNESCO Beirut and UIL Hamburg are initiating this Regional Policy Forum with several governments and stakeholders in the Arab States to help to develop a comprehensive regional strategy and action plan for the implementation of the recognition of formal, non-formal and informal learning and alternative learning opportunities.