Addis Ababa — Ethiopia is aiming to harness alternative basic education as a way of tackling the millions of children left out of school, a conference heard on Tuesday.

Dereje Terefe, deputy minister of general education, told a two-day conference that non-formal education was vital if the government is to achieve education for all by 2015.

Experts argue that education is one of the key weapons for reducing poverty and inequality and boosting economic growth.

Dereje said that by decentralising the heavily-structured education system, Ethiopia had ensured improved access in remote areas of the country.

Some 20 languages were now being taught in schools, he told the conference which is sponsored by Save the Children Alliance.

He said the ministry "realises and recognises" the need to use alternative basic education as a way of achieving educational goals and attracting marginalised children.

Alternative basic education - or non-formal education - allows children access to schooling outside the government sector, especially in rural areas.

It means children - and adults - can attend lessons in the villages where there may be no school and at times that suit them.