This article examines the difficulties of extending literacy training, adult education and vocational training to out-of-work youth within the context of Malawi. The central argument of this paper is that unless the mass of illiterate and semi-literate youths are given practical skills to enable them to earn a livelihood, their employment and earning prospects are bleak. Without gainful employment these out-of-school youths will be unable to escape the poverty trap. An apprenticeship scheme, linked to the functional literacy programme is advocated as a means for skills training. Under the scheme a learner would be attached to an experienced artisan or craftsman to learn a trade or craft by direct observation and practice.
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