Popular education is different from formal education:

·      It begins with the everyday life and concerns of participants.

·      It leads to actions for change.

·      It explores alternatives to the present system

·      It analyses issues of power, inequality and injustice.

·      It encourages active participation

Purpose

The Popular Education Programme 2015 builds on previous experiences and insights. Through its dialogue and workshop series, the youth course and specifically designed work with organisations the programme targets experienced and new educators working in NGOs and grassroots organisations. All participants must have a belief in and passion for education as a vehicle for change and transformation.

The Dialogue series

The popular education ‘dialogues’ take our previous work with ‘popular education practitioner circles’ a step forward. They aim to further develop a cadre of experienced educators and introduce the popular education approach to new ones. There will be 10 ‘dialogues’, each approximately 3-hours long, on the last Friday of the month. They will revolve around specific topical issues, designed collaboratively and facilitated by experienced popular educators. 

The workshop series

The purpose of the workshops is to assist progressive organisations to develop their ability to design, organize and facilitate appropriate, relevant and motivating education. Participation in the workshops does not assume previous experience with popular education. Completion of all workshops is recognized through a certificate of achievement.

Please note: Topics are subject to change

Adventure camp

The first workshop is an outdoor adventure camp to promote teambuilding and intergenerational communication skills, at ‘Back to Basics’, 23-25 February.

Costs: There is a refundable registration fee of R50 for the camp. We offer bursaries of R1200 per person to cover costs of transport, food and accommodation.

Applications: Applications must be on the pre-scribed form available from PEP. The selection of camp participants will be based on participants’ active involvement in community organisations, a recommendation from a community leader, and a personal motivation expressed on the application form.

The deadline for applications in 14 February.

The Youth Course

Young people between 18 and 25 have innate talent, energy, attitude and a remarkable zest for life. Yet, there are few outlets for their creativity and energy. There is a lack of adequate facilities and opportunities to get involved in health,  do sports and develop an interest in art, drama, music, film etc.

This 1-year programme aims to develop young people’s leadership as facilitators of health, sports and cultural activities for peers in their home areas.

The course is structured as follows:

1.     Participation in the intergenerational ‘camp’

2.     Attendance at dialogues and workshops

3.     2 residential courses in May and July that focus on organising and mobilising skills

4.     Home-phases in which skills learned are applied by setting up ‘youth clubs’ and organising activities for other youth. Participants will receive a stipend for community work.

5.     A final event to showcase skills and knowledge and generate interest for further clubs and activities.

There is a registration fee of R50 for the youth course, refundable on completion of the course.  For more information please contact us! (details below)

Costs

The Popular Education Programme will cover the costs of facilitation, refreshments and materials at Dialogues and Workshops. Participants have to make their own transport arrangements and bear the costs of travel.

National Popular Education Workshop (3-6 September)

In 2013 and 2014, The Popular Education Programme organised and ran very successful 3-day workshops with participants from all over South Africa. This year, we continue the work of building strong networks and encouraging broad dialogue. Details to follow.

Building Popular Education

As in the past, we continue our work with organisations and assist with designing and facilitating special workshops and events, in response to requests. Please contact us to discuss possible collaborations!

Contact

Astrid, Derrick or Vanessa

0799482843

e-mail: poped2011@gmail.com