Written by: Naomi Nunn, ASEAN-UK Sage Programme, Southeast Asia
Millions of children in Southeast Asia remain out of school, limiting their future opportunities. The ASEAN–UK SAGE (Supporting the Advancement of Girls’ Education) programme is addressing these challenges by shaping policies that expand access to education for girls and marginalised youth. Launched in 2023 in partnership with the SEAMEO Secretariat, EdTech Hub, the Australian Council for Educational Research (ACER) and the British Council, the ASEAN–UK SAGE Programme marks a significant milestone in the implementation of the ASEAN–UK Plan of Action (2022–2026).
Funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), this initiative is committed to transforming educational opportunities for girls and marginalised communities across ASEAN member states and Timor-Leste. The programme aligns with both ASEAN and UK educational priorities by addressing the foundational learning crisis, supporting out-of-school children, and tackling gender barriers in digital skills and employment. Through collaboration with key regional organisations and policymakers, the programme delivers lasting change, ensuring that all children, especially girls and those from marginalised backgrounds, have access to quality education and a brighter future.
A pivotal moment in this journey was the recent launch of the report, Out-of-School Children and Youth in Southeast Asia: A Rapid Scoping Study. Produced by SEAMEO and EdTech Hub under the ASEAN–UK SAGE programme, the study offers critical insights into the challenges faced by out-of-school children and youth in the region. Its findings are intended to guide policymakers and educators in developing targeted and effective interventions to improve access to education and support the most vulnerable learners.
The report was officially launched in Bangkok, Thailand, on 28 November 2024, at an event that brought together experts, policymakers, and educators to discuss strategies for addressing educational inequalities. The event featured two policy dialogues, one focused on supporting out of school children and youth in Southeast Asia, and the other on the transformative potential of education technology in creating inclusive learning opportunities. British Council Director for Southeast Asia, Summer Xia, spoke at the event, highlighting the importance of regional collaboration in tackling these critical issues.
This research reinforces the ASEAN-UK SAGE programme’s commitment to evidence-based policymaking. It will serve as a key reference point for future discussions and policy dialogues, ensuring that interventions are grounded in robust research and practical recommendations. The findings will also be developed into a policy brief, offering a valuable resource for policymakers, educators, and development partners working to enhance educational opportunities for out-of-school children and youth in the ASEAN region.
The report is a crucial first step towards more in-depth, country-specific studies and recommendations, as well as pilot projects that will test out some of the key recommendations in the areas that need it the most. It accompanies a foundational research piece developed by ACER on the situation and challenges to supporting out-of-school girls and marginalised groups in the ASEAN region.
Moving forward, the ASEAN–UK SAGE programme will continue to refine its policy recommendations, ensuring long-term and sustainable impact. Through strategic partnerships and a shared commitment to improving educational outcomes, the programme strives towards a future where every child, regardless of their background, has the chance to learn, thrive, and contribute to their communities.
For more details, you can access the full report and related resources here:
Full Report: OUT-OF-SCHOOL CHILDREN AND YOUTH IN SOUTHEAST ASIA: A Rapid Scoping Study
Launch event article: SEAMEO Website
Policy Dialogue 1: Supporting out of school children
Policy Dialogue 2: EdTech for inclusive education
ACER’s report: Supporting out-of-school children and marginalised groups