Second Chance Education (SCE) signature features

The approach of UN Women’s Second Chance Education (SCE) Programme recognizes that, for women who are marginalized by crisis, poverty, or harmful social norms, transformational change requires more than the offer of training or education alone. SCE’s target women have been held back by gender-based barriers and discriminatory practices all their lives without their necessarily being aware of it. SCE therefore provides access to practical support and life skills training that enable women to participate fully in whichever learning pathway they choose. Similarly, it recognizes the importance of social learning and personalized support throughout the SCE journey. This scaffolded approach is represented by SCE’s six signature features highlighted in this brochure.

Support is provided to remove the constraints to women’s participation in SCE. It may include access to care services to alleviate the care burden, such as child, disability, and elder care; safe and affordable transport to the hubs; and engaging with men in families and communities to build their support. Gender-transformative life skills are context-specific and attempt to address intersecting inequalities. Women participate in one of three learning pathways: entrepreneurship/self-employment, employment/vocational training, or return to formal education.

SCE draws on its experience on the ground to advocate for removal of the structural constraints to women’s participation in education, training, and the workforce. E-learning is offered in some form to all participants, whether SCE is delivered through physical hubs or entirely online. Personalized support underpins women’s participation throughout their SCE journey.