PARTICIPATION OF ROMA PUPILS IN NON-FORMAL EDUCATION IN LITHUANIA
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17770/sie2024vol1.7882Keywords:
: parents of pupils, participation in non-formal education, Roma pupils, social pedagogues, workers of non-governmental organizationsAbstract
While Lithuania has made significant progress in integrating Roma pupils into the education system, real changes are still insufficient and require attention to the participation of Roma pupils in non-formal education. The aim of this paper is to highlight the opportunities and limitations of Roma pupils' participation in non-formal education. Semi-structured interviews were used to collect qualitative data. The participants in the study included 11 parents of Roma pupils, 8 school social pedagogues, and 3 workers from NGOs. Content analysis was conducted. Roma parents relate the benefits of non-formal education to children's meaningful leisure time, the development of skills necessary for a successful future, and the improvement of health. Parents face problems related to the accessibility and financing of non-formal education for pupils with special needs. Social pedagogues observe the involvement of primary school Roma pupils in events, various sports, or art groups. However, teenagers tend not to participate in non-formal education at school. Teenagers engage in non-formal education outside of school when events or sports activities are financed by sponsors rather than the family budget. Recognition of the contribution of NGOs in supporting and involving Roma pupils in non-formal education is crucial. This support is not only important for the promotion of Roma identity but also for strengthening the motivation of teenagers to attend school classes.
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