The Needs of Youth in Transition after the Alternative Education Program in Taiwan

Abstract

In Taiwan, three alternative education programs are available to support school dropouts facing difficulties in mainstream education. While some programs offer residential services specifically for individuals from dysfunctional families, eligibility is limited to those under 15, as the primary objective is to facilitate compulsory education completion. Consequently, when reaching age 15, program leavers must decide between returning to dysfunctional families and pursuing independent living. To examine how these programs can address the needs of the leavers, this study conducted semi-structured interviews with six program leaders nationwide. The findings revealed that the leavers have diverse needs, necessitating relevant services for a successful transition into adulthood. However, due to the absence of applicable laws or government policies regarding the leavers, the programs can only offer services during the pre- or post-leaving stages through private funding and community resources. This raises concerns regarding such services’ stability and long-term sustainability, highlighting the importance of adequate funding. Collaboration between the government and program leaders is crucial in facilitating the leavers’ transition based on the experiences of current programs and their specific needs, ultimately contributing to improved outcomes.