5.2.5. Duration of Program and Time Offered

Respondents described the majority of programs as full-time, beginning in the fall and lasting for 10-12 months (see Tables 5-5 and 5-6). The institutions which most frequently provide ABE services to women are organized to offer programs full-time during the day, the same schedule designed to meet the needs of children in elementary-secondary education programs and young adults pursuing post-secondary education programs.

Under-educated women are adults with urgent economic needs and responsibilities. Many of them need to work. It is difficult for them to work full-time (or even part-time), take care of their children, and go to full-time or part-time school for 10-12 months. To say it is difficult is an understatement. Under-educated women should not be asked to fit themselves into schedules designed for young adults and, at the same time, to carry out their responsibilities as (poor) adults. Children have parents who provide for them while they are in school. Those who go to colleges and universities have access to student loans, scholarships, and the like. These support services are not available to under-educated women.

If women are to attend these 10-12 month programs, they must be guaranteed an income to cover their expenses for the period, and also, adequate childcare facilities and subsidies.