Executive Procedures for the Adult Education and Literacy System in the Makkah Al-Mukarramah Region: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

This study aimed to examine the adult education and literacy system in the Makkah region by assessing the quality of education provided to the target groups and identifying the main challenges facing learners and teachers in continuing education centers. It also evaluated the readiness of the educational environment and the alignment of educational programs with learners' needs, while offering practical recommendations that contribute in raising the educational awareness level based on an analysis of the regulatory framework and its application in the field, thus providing a more comprehensive understanding of the effectiveness of the educational policies in achieving their goals and enhancing opportunities for future development. The researchers adopted the qualitative approach, which focuses on understanding the phenomenon within its natural context by exploring the meanings, motivations, and relationships surrounding it. Data were collected and analyzed using interviews and questionnaires. The findings showed high motivation among learners, yet digital illiteracy limited their ability to benefit from the educational programs. The study also revealed insufficient training for specialized teachers and weak incentives, while highlighting the essential role of families in supporting continuous learning, especially as there is a need for a supportive environment encouraging the acquisition of basic skills and support commitment to the educational programs constantly to guarantee attaining better and more durable outcomes.

The research concluded with the need to develop curricula suited to learners’ characteristics, strengthen professional teacher training, improve incentives, and integrate digital tools in the educational process to enhance higher efficiency in line with Vision 2030, contributing to a knowledge‑based society capable of supporting lifelong learning.