Inclusion and Equity: Mapping the Legislative Landscape of Non-State Education in the MENA Region

Abstract

The nonstate education sector has experienced rapid growth globally and in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) in the last three decades (Al Qasimi Foundation, 2021). This rapid growth has had a major effect on issues of sound education provision, financing, and equity. While several studies have explored this regional trend of expansion in private education, in particular (Ridge et al., 2016b; Abdelkhalek & Langsten, 2019), few have attempted to discuss the extent to which nonstate education legislation addresses issues of equity and inclusion. As such, this report examines legislation and regulations for the nonstate education sector across MENA countries, focusing in particular on equity and inclusion. It attempts to do so by assessing whether laws and policies delineate limitations on fee-setting and profit-making, while further examining whether nonstate education legislation accounts for the inclusion of persons with disabilities (PWDs) and those from disadvantaged backgrounds. It begins with a background discussion of the growth and categorization of nonstate education in the MENA region. Next, the methodology and typologies of nonstate education are outlined, before presenting the discussion section, challenges, and recommendations for policymakers.