The Role of EdTech Startups in Transforming Education in Egypt

 

Written by Iasmina Stoian

Source: Getty Image https://www.al-monitor.com/originals/2022/01/egypt-moves-redress-teacher-shortages-public-schools

 

Education in Egypt has long faced numerous challenges, including overcrowded classrooms, insufficient resources, and outdated curricula. For decades, these obstacles have limited the quality and accessibility of education for students across the country, particularly in rural areas. In recent years, however, the rise of educational technology (EdTech) startups has begun to change the face of education in Egypt. These innovative companies are leveraging technology to address the systemic issues within the Egyptian education system, offering new opportunities for both students and educators. This article explores the transformative role of EdTech startups in Egypt and their potential to reshape the future of education in the country.

 

The Need for Innovation in Egyptian Education

The Egyptian education system has historically been marked by its rigidity, with an over-reliance on rote memorization and high-stakes testing. Students often lack access to critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills—skills that are increasingly in demand in the global workforce. Furthermore, a significant urban-rural divide exacerbates educational inequality, with students in rural areas facing even greater challenges in accessing quality education.

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted these pre-existing issues while also introducing new challenges. With schools closing for extended periods, millions of students were left without access to education due to the lack of digital infrastructure and resources. The crisis underscored the urgent need for innovation in education and the potential of technology to provide solutions.

 

The Rise of EdTech Startups

In response to these challenges, Egypt has seen a surge in the number of EdTech startups in recent years. These startups are developing innovative platforms, tools, and applications designed to make education more accessible, engaging, and effective for students across the country. The growing demand for online learning during the pandemic acted as a catalyst for many of these ventures, but their impact is expected to extend far beyond the immediate crisis.

EdTech startups in Egypt are tackling a wide range of educational needs, from early childhood learning to university-level education and vocational training. They are focusing on diverse areas, including online tutoring, interactive learning platforms, gamification, and adaptive learning technologies. These companies are not only addressing the issues of accessibility and quality but also working to modernize and digitize the traditional education system.

Key Areas of Transformation

One of the most significant contributions of EdTech startups in Egypt is the promotion of personalized learning. Traditional classrooms often fail to cater to the individual needs of students, as teachers are required to manage large groups with varying levels of ability. EdTech solutions, however, allow students to learn at their own pace, accessing resources tailored to their learning styles and needs.

Platforms like Almentor and Kiwa Academy offer online courses in various subjects, enabling students to select the areas in which they need more support. By providing a more flexible and personalized approach, EdTech companies are helping students to better understand complex concepts, retain information, and develop independent learning habits.

Another crucial area where EdTech startups are making a difference is in bridging the gap between urban and rural education. In Egypt, students in rural areas often have limited access to qualified teachers, modern resources, and extracurricular activities. This has led to a significant disparity in educational outcomes between rural and urban students. Through digital platforms, EdTech startups are making quality education accessible to students in remote areas. For example, Nafham, an Egyptian EdTech platform, provides free educational content aligned with the national curriculum, allowing students across the country to access lessons regardless of their location. The platform also includes interactive features like quizzes and video tutorials, making learning more engaging and effective.

In addition to student-focused initiatives, some EdTech startups in Egypt are also working to enhance teacher training and professional development. The traditional education system often overlooks the need for continuous teacher training, leaving educators ill-equipped to manage the changing demands of the modern classroom. EdTech startups such as Classera provide teacher training programs that help educators develop digital literacy and integrate technology into their teaching methods. By empowering teachers with new tools and skills, these startups are improving the overall quality of education and ensuring that teachers can provide students with a more engaging and interactive learning experience.

The Egyptian education system has traditionally placed a heavy emphasis on academic learning, often at the expense of vocational training and lifelong learning opportunities. EdTech startups are addressing this gap by providing platforms that cater to non-traditional learners, including those seeking vocational training or professional development.

For instance, platforms like Udemy and SkillAcademy offer courses in various vocational fields, enabling learners to acquire skills that are directly applicable to the job market. These platforms are particularly valuable in a country like Egypt, where unemployment rates are high, and many young people are seeking opportunities to enhance their employability through skills-based learning.

 

Challenges and Opportunities

Despite the significant progress made by EdTech startups in Egypt, challenges remain. One of the primary obstacles is the lack of digital infrastructure in many parts of the country. While EdTech platforms can reach students in remote areas, they still require a reliable internet connection and access to devices, both of which are limited in many rural regions. Additionally, there is a need for greater collaboration between EdTech companies and the government to ensure that technological solutions are integrated into the national education system in a sustainable and equitable manner.

However, the opportunities for growth are immense. Egypt’s young and tech-savvy population is increasingly open to adopting new technologies, and the government has shown a growing interest in supporting digital education initiatives. By fostering an ecosystem that supports innovation and collaboration, Egypt has the potential to become a regional leader in EdTech, with startups playing a pivotal role in transforming education for future generations.

 

Conclusion

The rise of EdTech startups in Egypt represents a promising step toward addressing the longstanding challenges of the country’s education system. Through personalized learning, improved access to resources, enhanced teacher training, and innovative teaching methods, these startups are reshaping how students learn and how educators teach. While challenges remain, the transformative potential of EdTech is undeniable, offering hope for a more inclusive, accessible, and effective education system in Egypt. As these startups continue to grow and evolve, they are poised to play a critical role in the future of education in the country.

Education in Egypt has long faced numerous challenges, including overcrowded classrooms, insufficient resources, and outdated curricula. For decades, these obstacles have limited the quality and accessibility of education for students across the country, particularly in rural areas. In recent years, however, the rise of educational technology (EdTech) startups has begun to change the face of education in Egypt. These innovative companies are leveraging technology to address the systemic issues within the Egyptian education system, offering new opportunities for both students and educators. This article explores the transformative role of EdTech startups in Egypt and their potential to reshape the future of education in the country.

 

Keywords: Egypt, education, personalized learning, online learning platforms, digital education, vocational training, teacher, innovation

 

References:

AU Startups. “12 EdTech Startups Transforming Education across North Africa to Watch.” AU Startups, September 8, 2023. https://au-startups.com/2023/09/08/12-edtech-startups-transforming-education-across-north-africa-to-watch/ausjobs/.

Magnitt. “EdTech Startups in Egypt.” Magnitt. Accessed May 12, 2025. https://magnitt.com/en-eg/startups/edtech.

UNESCO. “UNESCO Celebrates Egypt’s Achievements in Digital Technology and Innovation in Education.” UNESCO, February 16, 2023. https://www.unesco.org/en/articles/unesco-celebrates-egypts-achievements-digital-technology-and-innovation-education.

Halo Lab. “TOP 15 promising EdTech startups to follow in 2024.” Halo Lab Blog, April 20, 2023. https://www.halo-lab.com/blog/edtech-startups.

Kozma, Robert B. Technology, Economic Development, and Educational Reform: Global Changes and an Egyptian Response. OECD/CERI International Case Study Project. Paris: Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, 2005. https://www.academia.edu/download/62234764/kozma_egyptian_report.pdf.

Ewiss, Mohamed Zaki. “Empowering the Egyptian’s Education in the Era of COVID-19.” ResearchGate, 2020. https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Mohamed-Zaki-Ewiss/publication/346589333_Empowering_the_Egyptian’s_Education_in_the_Era_of_Covid-19/links/5fc8c535a6fdcc697bd858d5/Empowering-the-Egyptians-Education-in-the-Era-of-Covid-19.pdf.

El-Masry, Nermine. “The Future of Educational Technology in Egypt: Prospects and Challenges.” Egyptian Journal of Educational Technology, vol. 31, no. 3 (2021): 125–144. https://journals.ekb.eg/article_316740.html.

Child Poverty in Tonga

Written by Panashe Marie Louise Mlambo

The Kingdom of Tonga is divided into four island groups and consists of some 170 islands, with only 36 Islands inhabited in the Polynesian Pacific. The four island groups are Tongatapu in the south, Ha’apai in the centre, Vava’u in the north, and Niuatoputapu and Niuafo’ou in the north. The total population stands at 106,170, around 37 per cent of whom are under the age of 15.

i. The country faces numerous issues, one of them being learning poverty, which refers to the inability of children to read and understand a simple text by age 10. To understand why the country faces a large number of children who are under learning poverty, we must look at the socio-economic issues that affect the country.

 

In addition to poverty, The Kingdom of Tonga also has environmental issues, primarily climate issues, due to its coastal location. Like many other Pacific Islands, Tonga is vulnerable to natural disasters, cyclones, and unfortunately, it also has a large number of people who live under the poverty line. In March 2015, at the Third UN World Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction, Tonga was labelled the second most at-risk country in the world due to constantly being threatened by different natural disasters. As a result, many education systems suffer in terms of quality and quantity, leading to poverty and insecurities in learning.

 

Free education and retention issues.

The country has free education for children aged 6 to 14, and education has been compulsory for this age group since 1987; however, after completion of secondary school, many students leave the country to pursue tertiary education in Australia and other countries, which has led to a continuous brain drain and the country’s reliance of remittances.

ii. In addition, the World Bank report, which looked at houses in Tonga, found that to tackle issues in education and the economy, the country needs to find other sources of income.

iii. Despite the strides in making education accessible, the country still faces a large percentage of out-of-school children and non-completion of primary and secondary school. Due to free education only covering up to 14 years and the country’s large number of people living under the poverty line, the dropout rate is higher in upper secondary school. According to UNICEF, in a 2023 study, 2 per cent do not complete primary, 8 per cent do not complete lower secondary school, and 49 per cent do not complete upper secondary.

iv. Gender roles and education

According to the UNICEF education fact sheet,v 62 per cent of the children who do not complete primary education are boys, 57 per cent at the lower secondary level, and 54 per cent at the upper secondary level are boys—further highlighting the glaring issues in gender norms.

 

V. Around the globe, looking at the data collected by Education Monitoring Around the Globe by Broken Chalk, many countries that have a large number of people living below the poverty line have issues with boys retention; many boys in these countries drop out to provide for their families and also get involved in criminal activities, and Tonga is an example of this phenomenon.

 

COL undertook a study on boys’ underachievement in Tonga to investigate factors affecting boys’ participation, performance and learning outcomes in school. The researchers engaged over 450 stakeholders through surveys and interviews with parents, teachers, boys, community members and the Ministry for Education and Training staff.

vi. The researchers found that social norms largely affect the perception of boys, and due to poverty, many boys understand criminal activities and drop out due to responsibilities at home, and many people are unaware of these issues.

Learning Poverty and Social Status

According to UNICEF, 48 per cent of children who have Grade 3 as the highest grade attended have the expected reading skills for that grade, while 26 per cent of children have the expected numeracy skills. The data also shows that children in the bottom wealth quintile have lower numeracy skills compared to children from the richest households in the country.

Socioeconomic status (SES) plays a crucial role in shaping a child’s educational outcomes. Children from lower-SES backgrounds often face multiple disadvantages that impede their academic progress. These disadvantages include limited access to educational resources at home, reduced parental involvement due to time constraints or lower educational attainment of parents, and fewer opportunities for early childhood development.

vii. The home literacy environment, in particular, has been identified as a significant factor influencing children’s literacy skills. Children from lower-SES households typically have fewer books at home and engage less frequently in reading activities with their parents, which can hinder the development of foundational literacy skills.

viiiI. In the kingdom of Tonga, there are two main official languages, English and Tongan, with children from English-speaking homes having more literacy. According to UNICEF, 70 per cent of 7 to 14-year-olds who speak English at home have foundational reading skills; this is higher than children who speak Tongan at home.

ix. Environment issues and effects on education

As mentioned above, the country is highly susceptible to environmental disasters, and in the World Bank report, it was noted that to improve education and retention issues in schools, there is a need for social protection initiatives. The country frequently has to rebuild schools, and education is disrupted due to natural disasters; the country also lacks proper infrastructure, despite the location is often being at risk one, to combat the effects of cyclones and floodings on education and households. It is notable that the country, from 2015 to 2021, initiated social programs which assist families in disasters and is now closer to similar countries, although still lacking.

x. It is, therefore, critical that the government make improvements to improve social programs and infrastructure to bridge the gap between poverty and education.

 

Conclusion

In conclusion, The Kingdom of Tonga must put measures in place to combat learning poverty. The country, from 2015-to 2021, has made strides to combat poverty, but with the new seasons coming disasters on the rise in its region, and the number of children learning poverty increasing, it is dire that the country puts in place digital and other implementations in place to combat learning poverty. One of the reasons for learning about poverty is disruptions in education. By improving the country’s internal issues, the country can have sustainable results in reducing poverty overall.

 

 

Reference List 

1. UNICEF. (2017). Situation analysis of children in Tonga. https://www.unicef.org/pacificislands/media/1251/file/Situation-Analysis-of-Children-Tonga.pdf

2. Morgan, C. (2020, April 23). 8 facts about education in Tonga. The Borgen Project. https://borgenproject.org/8-facts-about-education-in-tonga/

3. World Bank. (2019). Tonga: Education sector report. World Bank Open Knowledge Repository. https://openknowledge.worldbank.org/entities/publication/bee749e0-d3cc-4b7f-aaad-c1278a07ea3f

4. UNICEF. (2023). Tonga factsheet 2023. UNICEF Data. https://data.unicef.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Tonga-factsheet-2023.pdf

5. Commonwealth of Learning. (2022, March 17). Aligning reform strategies for boys’ educational outcomes in Tonga. https://www.col.org/news/aligning-reform-strategies-for-boys-educational-outcomes-in-tonga/

6. World Bank. (2024, October 17). Despite challenges, Tonga making important steps in reducing poverty. https://www.worldbank.org/en/news/press-release/2024/10/17/despite-challenges-tonga-making-important-steps-in-reducing-poverty

i UNICEF. (2017). Situation analysis of children in Tonga. UNICEF. Retrieved from https://www.unicef.org/pacificislands/media/1251/file/Situation-Analysis-of-Children-Tonga.pdf

ii Morgan, C. (2020, April 23). 8 facts about education in Tonga. The Borgen Project. Retrieved from https://borgenproject.org/8-facts-about-education-in-tonga/

iii World Bank. (2019). Tonga: Education sector report. World Bank Open Knowledge Repository. Retrieved from https://openknowledge.worldbank.org/entities/publication/bee749e0-d3cc-4b7f-aaad-c1278a07ea3f

iv UNICEF. (2023). Tonga factsheet 2023. UNICEF Data. Retrieved from https://data.unicef.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Tonga-factsheet-2023.pdf

v https://data.unicef.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Tonga-factsheet-2023.pdf

vi Commonwealth of Learning. (2022, March 17). Aligning reform strategies for boys’ educational outcomes in Tonga. Commonwealth of Learning. Retrieved from https://www.col.org/news/aligning-reform-strategies-for-boys-educational-outcomes-in-tonga/

vii https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9588575/

viii https://sites.lsa.umich.edu/mje/2023/01/05/the-relationship-between-socioeconomic-status-and-literacy-how-literacy-is-influenced-by-and-influences-ses/

ix https://www.unicef.org/pacificislands/media/1251/file/Situation-Analysis-of-Children-Tonga.pdf

x World Bank. (2024, October 17). Despite challenges, Tonga making important steps in reducing poverty. World Bank. Retrieved from https://www.worldbank.org/en/news/press-release/2024/10/17/despite-challenges-tonga-making-important-steps-in-reducing-poverty

The Impact of the Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza on Educational Rights

Written by Alessia Bruni

The humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to disrupt the lives of many residents severely, specifically affecting the educational rights of Palestinian children. The right to education is a fundamental right that all children should enjoy, however, for many children and students living in the Gaza Strip, school has been inaccessible due to the damage to their infrastructure and the threat of violence. The crisis disrupts the children’s ability to gain quality education, creating long-term obstacles.

The Crisis in Gaza

Recent reports calculate that over 625,000 children in Gaza, including 300,00 enrolled in the United Nations Relief and Works Agency, schools have been directly impacted by the ongoing humanitarian crisis. (United Nations Relief Works Agency 2024) These families and their children live in a constant state of fear due to the ongoing threats of violence by military operations, and this causes a lack of access to essential services, with education being the most predominant. Many of the schools that allow access to education have been destroyed or damaged by airstrikes at an alarming rate of 90%, leaving families to be displaced. (Rose and Sayed 2024) Our normalcy of everyday life is easily sustainable, whereas, for Palestinian children, normalcy is impossible to sustain. Having to rebuild the educational system will leave the children losing either 2 years of education in case a ceasefire was to be drawn, and if not, an alarming 5 years of education could be lost. (Rose and Sayed 2024)

Destruction of Infrastructure

The humanitarian crisis in Gaza is not only reflected in the multitude of deaths of children but also extends to the fate of the children who do survive but are left with the aftereffects of the destruction, leaving their opportunities, specifically educational opportunities, in jeopardy. The Education Cluster deployed a satellite-derived damage assessment in the Gaza Strip to assess the damage to infrastructure and educational facilities. The results of the satellite images revealed that hundreds of the buildings were destroyed. To further highlight these atrocities, under International Humanitarian Law, any direct attack against a school is constituted as a violation, specifically regarding children in conflict. (Inger Ashing, Sherif, and Egeland 2024) This highlights the severity of the lives and educational opportunities of Palestinian children.

The extent of the destruction underscores the lasting and devastating impact on educational access for current and future generations. The significant damage to these schools places educational opportunities in a state of crisis; once hostilities cease, children may find themselves without any schools to attend. Furthermore, rebuilding the infrastructure could take years or may even prove impossible. (United Nations 2024) The destruction of school facilities not only postpones formal education but deprives children of a safe learning environment. Schools are vital for fostering social skills and supporting emotional and educational development. (UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights 2024) The absence of adequate infrastructure has forced students into temporary shelters, where they face numerous challenges, including overcrowding, interruptions, and limited support and resources. (Hinnawi 2024)

The Psychological Damage on the Children and Educators

It is important to draw attention to the significant psychological impact of the humanitarian crisis on Gaza’s children. It is calculated that over 1.2 million children live in a constant state where their safety is compromised due to threats or violence, this creates effects that are lasting to their well-being. (Hinnawi 2024) The impact of the crisis has left nearly all children in the Gaza Strip to require mental health support due to the atrocities and the lasting trauma due to the multitude of loss of their friends, homes, schools, and family. (Rose and Sayed 2024)

“Education has been under relentless attack in Gaza and the West Bank, with hundreds of thousands of children deprived of their right to education, tens of thousands of teachers having lost their jobs, and hundreds of schools in the Gaza Strip totally or partially destroyed” (Education International 2024) The ongoing conflict continues to disrupt the lives of the children with ongoing trauma, contributing to the ability of the children to engage in educational opportunities meaningfully. Furthermore, many of the educators face the same trauma that the children of Gaza experience while having to work under strenuous conditions to provide education. This creates a disruptive cycle of learning as both the educators and students are subjected to severe psychological trauma due to the ongoing trauma and instability. (Graham-Harrison and Mousa 2023)

The Generational Impact

The long-term implications of the current crisis in Gaza on education are profound, leaving many students without access to schooling now and potentially in the future if conditions do not improve. The loss of education raises the alarming prospect of a “lost generation,” as prolonged school absences deprive children of the essential skills and knowledge needed for meaningful economic and social contributions. (Rose and Sayed 2024) Education offers a vital pathway for children to improve their circumstances and provides individuals from impoverished backgrounds a chance to break free from their limitations and establish stability. The erosion of educational opportunities not only jeprodises the future of these children but also threatens the overall future of Palestinian society. (Ali 2024)

The degradation of educational opportunities in Gaza has far-reaching implications that extend beyond academic knowledge, encompassing the essential values and aspirations that a school environment fosters. Interviews conducted by aid workers have revealed that many children in Gaza are grappling with fundamental questions regarding the concepts of equality and human rights. (United Nations Relief Works Agency 2024) These inquiries arise from the stark contradiction between these ideals and the pervasive violence and trauma they endure. If ongoing loss of hope, intervention, and values persists, it may rise to significant social challenges in the future. (UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights 2024)

The Role of International Aid

International organisations and governments must prioritise the right to education in their response to the ongoing crisis, particularly through the provision of humanitarian aid. The United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) has taken significant steps to address this issue by calling for an immediate ceasefire and urging international organisations to increase funding for their “Education in Emergencies” program. This initiative provides non-formal education, mental health support, and temporary learning spaces. (United Nations Relief Works Agency 2024) A commitment to educational recovery is essential to safeguard the future of children in Gaza. This commitment should encompass measures that ensure safe learning environments during emergencies and humanitarian crises. This will help foster hope and stability for Palestinian youth. (Hinnawi 2024)

Conclusion

The humanitarian crisis in Gaza underscores the profound disruptions to both educational opportunities and humanitarian rights, leading to enduring and detrimental effects on physical infrastructure and mental health. Immediate intervention and assistance are essential, as the cycle of trauma and interrupted education is likely to escalate, resulting in long-term repercussions for the Palestinian children and the wider community. Education is a fundamental human right, and by prioritising aid initiatives, the international community has a critical opportunity to alleviate the impacts of the current crisis. Restoring educational access can provide the children of Gaza with a sense of normalcy, hope, and stability, which is crucial for both their present circumstances and future prospects.

References

Ali, Eman Alhaj. 2024. “In Gaza, education is resistance.” Al Jazeera, August 12, 2024. https://www.aljazeera.com/opinions/2024/8/12/in-gaza-education-is-resistance.

Education International. 2024. “War and trauma: Addressing mental health in Palestine.” Education International, July 8, 2024. https://www.ei-ie.org/en/item/28781:war-and-trauma-addressing-mental-health-in-palestine.

Graham-Harrison, Emma, and Aseel Mousa. 2023. “War’s toll on education in Gaza casts shadow over children’s future.” the Guardian, December 18, 2023. https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/dec/18/wars-toll-on-education-in-gaza-casts-shadow-over-childrens-future.

Hinnawi, Mohammed. 2024. “UNRWA Education activities in Gaza.” UNRWA EDUCATION RESPONSE IN GAZA, June 2024. https://www.unrwa.org/sites/default/files/content/resources/education_response_in_gaza_graphic_brief.pdf

Inger Ashing, Inger, Yasmine Sherif, and Jan Egeland. 2024. “Education Under Attack in Gaza, With Nearly 90% of School Buildings Damaged or Destroyed.” Save The Children, April 16, 2024. https://www.savethechildren.net/blog/education-under-attack-gaza-nearly-90-school-buildings-damaged-or-destroyed.

Rose, Pauline, and Yusuf Sayed. 2024. “Palestinian Education ‘under Attack’, Leaving a Generation Close to Losing Hope, Study Warns.” University of Cambridge. September 25, 2024. https://www.cam.ac.uk/research/news/palestinian-education-under-attack-leaving-a-generation-close-to-losing-hope-study-warns.

United Nations. 2024. “UN experts deeply concerned over ‘scholasticide’ in Gaza.” UN experts deeply concerned over ‘scholasticide’ in Gaza OHCHR, April 18, 2024. https://www.ohchr.org/en/press-releases/2024/04/un-experts-deeply-concerned-over-scholasticide-gaza.

United Nations Relief Works Agency. 2024. “Education Under Attack.” Education Under Attack UNWRA, September 9, 2024. https://www.unrwa.org/newsroom/photos/education-under-attack.

UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights. 2024. “UN Human Rights Office – OPT: The UN Human Rights Office condemns Israeli Defense Force’s Strike on Al Tabae’en School in Gaza City – occupied Palestinian territory.” ReliefWeb, August 10, 2024. https://reliefweb.int/report/occupied-palestinian-territory/un-human-rights-office-opt-un-human-rights-office-condemns-israeli-defense-forces-strike-al-tabaeen-school-gaza-city?_gl=1*1gb7d68*_ga*MTczOTcwNTI5NC4xNzE3NTA5ODY5*_ga_E60ZNX2F68*MTcyMzU1MDMzNi4yMi4xLjE3MjM1NTAzMzguNTguMC4w.

 

Cover Image by Honsy Salah, Gaza, Palestine, 2011, photograph, Pixabay, https://pixabay.com/photos/gaza-palestine-poverty-child-boy-6782232/

The lack of adequate education due to poverty in South Africa

 

 

Written by Alessia Bruni

The right to quality education is a fundamental right. However, in South Africa, numerous children encounter substantial obstacles in obtaining adequate education due to impoverished circumstances. Education plays a pivotal role in shaping individuals, affording them access to further opportunities. Regrettably, for many learners in South Africa, this aspiration remains elusive. Despite the efforts made by the South African government to improve the educational system, the economic divide continues to leave a large portion of the people of South Africa with limited educational opportunities and insufficient resources.

The Interrelation between Education and Poverty

The influence of poverty on a child’s education is profound, impacting their ability to access and remain in school and pursue higher education in the future. Approximately 55% of South Africa’s population resides in poverty. (World Bank Group 2023) This statistic highlights the nation’s educational framework, particularly in economically disadvantaged regions where essential elements such as infrastructure, teaching personnel, and educational materials are deficient. This results in significant disparities between wealthier schools and those in rural and township communities. (Mohamed 2020)

The influence of poverty on education can be found both directly and indirectly. Families facing financial hardship often encounter challenges in providing necessities such as uniforms, transportation, and school supplies, which can result in students discontinuing their education or frequently missing school. Moreover, students raised in impoverished environments may lack stable housing and an environment conducive to learning, thus adversely affecting their academic performance. The current challenges make it difficult to secure employment due to the absence of a strong educational foundation leaving the students without essential educational skills such as writing, reading, and social skills. (Hogan 2020)

Deficient Infrastructure and Resources

The need for adequate infrastructure in the education sector is paramount, as its absence can significantly affect the delivery of quality education. In South Africa, the adverse effects of poverty on education show in numerous schools that lack essential amenities such as running water, sanitation, and electricity. This insufficiency has led to students being educated in makeshift classrooms and outdoor settings due to the absence of proper facilities. Furthermore, overcrowded classrooms have hampered teachers’ ability to provide individual attention to students, impacting the overall education quality. (Veriava 2012)

Schools in rural and township areas of South Africa are not only confronted with inadequate infrastructure, but also face a dearth of fundamental educational resources such as books, textbooks, seating, desks, and technological amenities including internet connectivity and computers, which are occasionally non-existent in these rural educational institutions. These deficiencies underscore the profound impact of poverty on the educational landscape, thereby exacerbating the disparity between underprivileged and affluent schools, placing students in rural areas at a distinct disadvantage with limited prospects. (Global 2023)

Financial Barriers Leading to Dropout Rates

Public education in South Africa is offered at no cost. However, a significant number of students attending these schools are required to contribute to their family’s income, often resulting in high dropout rates. Additionally, these public schools that offer education free of charge lack the quality that is given in contrast to private schools, leading to many children lacking adequate and quality reading, writing, and many other skills offered at private schools. (Expatica 2016)

According to Statistics South Africa, approximately 20% of children aged 7-18 not in attendance at school attribute their absence to financial constraints. (Statistics South Africa 2022) Furthermore, individuals from economically disadvantaged backgrounds exhibit a higher likelihood of remaining at home with their families. Additional research indicates that poverty significantly contributes, elucidating variations in dropout rates between genders. The research reveals that male students are more prone to leaving school due to academic underperformance or interpersonal conflicts with peers and educators. Many also depart in pursuit of vocational training with the aspiration of securing employment. Conversely, female students are more inclined to discontinue their education due to caregiving responsibilities and financial adversity. (Desai et al. 2024)

The Significance of Early Childhood Development

Early childhood development plays a critical role in laying the foundation for future learning or studies, with barriers such as poverty in South Africa early childhood development (ECD) is affected. In South Africa access to ECD programs is difficult amongst families living in impoverished circumstances. The sectors most impacted in South Africa include early childhood education, social protection, and healthcare. These gaps negatively affect the youngest children from impoverished backgrounds creating barriers that leave them disadvantaged. An alarming rate of “ 7 in every 10 young children now live below the poverty line” (Biersteker, Lake, and Wiedaad Slemming 2024)

Insufficient financial support, coupled with minimal welfare grants, compounds the challenges and restricts access to vital services necessary for children’s development. ECD centres in impoverished areas where often financial constraints, inadequate staffing, and lack of resources, result in a deficiency of early stimulation and support for children. Consequently, many children commence formal schooling already disadvantaged, grappling to keep pace with the curriculum, thus contributing to elevated dropout rates in later years. (DGMT 2024)

Resolutions and Forward Thinking

It is paramount that the education gap be addressed in South Africa specifically relating to the disparities caused by poverty. Investment strategies should be implemented to contribute to adequate school infrastructure specifically in the rural and township areas. It is essential to provide a safe and conducive learning environment in South Africa to provide a more than adequate educational system to children in impoverished areas in South Africa. (uMkhonto weSizwe Party 2024)

The prioritization of teacher training and development is paramount, and the implementation of incentives is recommended to attract qualified educators to underserved schools. Moreover, it is advisable for the government to explore avenues for expanding early childhood education accessibility during the formative years of schooling. (Maimane 2022) Additionally, addressing financial barriers, such as transportation and undisclosed educational fees, is imperative to ensure equitable access to quality education for all students, irrespective of their socioeconomic background. (uMkhonto weSizwe Party 2024)

Conclusion

The quality of education in South Africa resulting from poverty remains a critical impediment to the nation’s advancement. The limited resources, inadequate infrastructure, and financial constraints continue to contribute to a system that marginalizes children from low-income and impoverished communities. Effective remedies need to be placed to address these challenges and necessitate the need for an adequate system to contribute financially to educational institutions with enhanced support for educators and families. Through a concentrated effort to remove these barriers in educational disparity, we can disrupt the cycle of poverty and secure a more promising future for all children in South Africa.

 

References

Biersteker, Linda, Lori Lake, and Wiedaad Slemming. 2024. “South Africa Is Failing Its Youngest Children – Report Flags Critical Gaps in Early Learning, Social Protection and Health Care.” The Conversation. September 11, 2024. https://theconversation.com/south-africa-is-failing-its-youngest-children-report-flags-critical-gaps-in-early-learning-social-protection-and-health-care-238607.

Desai, Rachana, Ansuyah Magan, Robert A.C. Ruiter, Priscilla S Reddy, and Liesbeth A.G. Mercken. 2024. “Understanding Why Youth Drop out of School in South Africa.” SAGE Open 14 (1). https://doi.org/10.1177/21582440231219080.

DGMT. 2024. “South African Early Childhood Review 2024 – DGMT.” DGMT – the DG Murray Trust. July 18, 2024. https://dgmt.co.za/south-african-early-childhood-review-2024/

Expatica. 2016. “Education in South Africa – Expat Guide to South Africa | Expatica.” Expat Guide to South Africa | Expatica. Expat Guide to South Africa | Expatica. 2016. https://www.expatica.com/za/education/children-education/education-in-south-africa-803205/.

Global, 4 Earth. 2023. “State of Education Facilities in Africa.” 4 Earth Global. November 7, 2023. https://4earth.global/state-of-education-facilities-in-africa/.

Hogan, Alyssa. 2020. “Links between South African Poverty and Education.” The Borgen Project. December 17, 2020. https://borgenproject.org/south-african-poverty-and-education/.

Maimane, Mmusi. 2022. “Mmusi Maimane | Ten Steps to Fix SA’s Education System for Future Generations.” News24. January 26, 2022. https://www.news24.com/news24/opinions/columnists/guestcolumn/mmusi-maimane-ten-steps-to-fix-sas-education-system-for-future-generations-20220126.

Mohamed, Shenilla. 2020. “South Africa: Broken and Unequal Education Perpetuating Poverty and Inequality.” Amnesty International. February 11, 2020. https://www.amnesty.org/en/latest/news/2020/02/south-africa-broken-and-unequal-education-perpetuating-poverty-and-inequality/.

Statistics South Africa. 2022. “Increase in Number of Out-of-School Children and Youth in SA in 2020 | Statistics South Africa.” Stats SA. June 29, 2022. https://www.statssa.gov.za/?p=15520.

uMkhonto weSizwe Party. 2024. “The State of Education in South Africa: Challenges and Prospects – MK Party.” MK Party. July 9, 2024. https://mkparty.org.za/the-state-of-education-in-south-africa/.

Veriava, Faranaaz . 2012. “Rich School, Poor School – the Great Divide Persists.” The Mail & Guardian. September 28, 2012. https://mg.co.za/article/2012-09-28-00-rich-school-poor-school-the-great-divide-persists/.

 

World Bank Group. 2023. “Poverty & Equity Brief Africa Eastern & Southern South Africa.” World Bank. April 2023. https://databankfiles.worldbank.org/public/ddpext_download/poverty/987B9C90-CB9F-4D93-AE8C-750588BF00QA/current/Global_POVEQ_ZAF.pdf.

Cover Image by Pixabay on 29/07/2020, Kone Kassoum. https://pixabay.com/photos/children-students-school-books-5445625

 

 

 

 

 

 

Educational Difficulties for ex-pats in the Netherlands

Educational Difficulties for ex-pats in the Netherlands

Written by Alexia Kapsabeli

The Netherlands stands as a popular destination for expatriates due to the many advantages the country has to offer. However, navigating the Dutch educational system poses a significant challenge for expat families and students who attend the many wonderful universities. These difficulties stem from differences in the education structure and system offered to the students, the language barriers, and the housing difficulties.

 

Dutch Educational System

The Dutch education system is unique as it heavily emphasizes tracking students into academic or vocational paths that start at an early age. (“Education in the Netherlands | Nuffic,” n.d.) At the university level, students must meet the entry requirements to apply and attend university. However, the Dutch universities offer two types of bachelor degrees. The first entails attending a University of Applied Sciences (HBO), which is more of a professional orientation, and the other is an academic university (WO), which focuses on an academic orientation. Additionally, HBO Bachelor’s programs take 4 years (240 ECTS) while the WO Bachelor’s programs take 3 years (180 ECTS). (“What’s the difference between HBO and WO?,” n.d.)

When applying to universities, there are a few challenges that international students may face, this includes the registration process as the Dutch universities have two types of bachelor’s degrees and for many expats, there is no formal process in educating these individuals in their choice.International students are “three times more likely to drop out in their first year of university than Dutch students: 17 percent of international students drop out in their first year, compared with 6 percent of Dutch students.” (Stylianou 2024) This highlights the many challenges that international students face when attending a Duch University.

Additionally, it is vital for students to be made aware of the BSA (binding study advice) that is provided by the universities in the final semester of the student’s first academic year, which determines whether or not the students can move forward with their desired subjects and courses, all depending on how each student performs which is reflected by the number of credits obtained or their grades. Failure to meet the minimum grade or credit requirements results in students receiving a negative BSA, which hinders their ability to move forward in their studies. Furthermore, the standards set out by the Dutch universities lead to students being disheartened as the level of difficulty to meet the requirements is high. Students, too, are faced with severe levels of stress and, as a result, detrimentally affects their mental health. (Stylianou 2024)

Language Barriers

A significant challenge for many internationals is the language barrier; the transition can be quite difficult even in English-speaking international schools as the students struggle to adapt to Dutch society, with an emphasis on many students struggling to understand the educational expectations. The universities, too, do not provide sufficient support to international students, thus emphasising a major challenge that foreign students face.

Due to the influx of international students, understanding and speaking English may be a challenge for these students, and due to the self-study lifestyle offered by the universities, this creates many challenges as these students may feel isolated or experience high levels of stress due to struggling to keep up with their studies due to lack of understanding and comprehension. (“Challenges Faced by International Students in Netherlands” 2023)

Transitioning into the Dutch Society

International students and expatriates often encounter challenges when adapting to a new educational system. Dutch educational institutions emphasize independence, critical thinking, and academic rigor, which can pose significant difficulties, particularly for students hailing from diverse and distinct educational backgrounds. The adjustment process can be especially difficult for international students, as they may experience feelings of loneliness, homesickness, and isolation. Furthermore, the families of these students may share similar sentiments due to their unfamiliarity with the Dutch education system and its unique practices. (European Commission 2022)

It is essential to recognize that the transition period can present a significant cultural adjustment for students. Relocating to another country poses inherent challenges, as differing customs, traditions, and social norms can contribute to an overwhelming experience. (“Challenges Faced by International Students in Netherlands” 2023)

Housing Crisis

The housing crisis in the Netherlands poses a continued and significant challenge for many of the international students. Starting a new life in a foreign country can already be quite challenging however, in the Netherlands, the struggle remains in finding affordable and suitable accommodation. (Walker 2024) The Netherlands continues to face a shortage of student housing due to the high demand, specifically in cities like Utrecht, Rotterdam, Amsterdam, and the Hague. Many of the students experience waiting lists, high rent, and location issues, which places the students in situations to live in temporary conditions such as shared rooms or locations that are far out from where they will attend university. (“The Student Housing Crisis in the Netherlands: How The Hague University of Applied Sciences is Supporting International Students” 2024)

International students may face challenges related to language proficiency and navigating Dutch rental regulations, as landlords often prioritize local tenants. This issue is particularly significant given the ongoing housing crisis in the Netherlands, which continues to attract an increasing number of international students. This will add to the strain and pressure that students are under academically and their transition process into Dutch society.

Conclusion

International students in the Netherlands face significant educational challenges that stem from the unique educational system, language barriers, societal differences, and housing difficulties. Although the Netherlands offers excellent educational opportunities, these difficulties can negatively impact international students’ well-being and mental health throughout their studies. Offering a better support system and addressing these difficulties is vital for ensuring a better quality of life and a better transitioning period for these students.

 

Cover Image by Frits de Jong, Den Haag, 2016, photograph, Pixabay, https://pixabay.com/photos/tu-delft-university-library-1723434/

 

References

“Challenges Faced by International Students in Netherlands.” 2023. studyabroad.jeduka, February 24, 2023. https://www.jeduka.com/articles-updates/netherlands/challenges-faced-by-international-students-in-netherlands.

“Education in the Netherlands | Nuffic.” n.d. Nuffic | De organisatie voor internationalisering in het onderwijs. Accessed December 4, 2024. https://www.nuffic.nl/en/subjects/study-in-nl/education-in-the-netherlands.

European Commission. 2022. “Netherlands: Challenges for international students.” European Website on Integration, November 20, 2022. https://migrant-integration.ec.europa.eu/news/netherlands-challenges-international-students_en.

“The Student Housing Crisis in the Netherlands: How The Hague University of Applied Sciences is Supporting International Students.” 2024. Goin’ – Connecting your students, September 10, 2024. https://www.goinconnect.com/success-stories/the-student-housing-crisis-in-the-netherlands-how-the-hague-university-of-applied-sciences-is-supporting-international-students#:~:text=According%20to%20a%20report%20by,for%20the%20international%20student%20population.

Stylianou, Kam. 2024. “Why the Netherlands can be a high-risk destination for students | Times Higher Education.” Times Higher Education (THE), April 15, 2024. https://www.timeshighereducation.com/counsellor/admissions-processes-and-funding/why-netherlands-can-be-high-risk-destination-students.

Walker,Anne-Maree. 2024. “Netherlands to reduce international student numbers amid ongoing student housing crisis | Global Student Living.” Global Student Living | Professional news, information and insight into student living and lifestyle around the world, February 23, 2024. https://gslglobal.com/2024/02/23/netherlands-to-reduce-international-student-numbers-amid-ongoing-student-housing-crisis/.

“What’s the difference between HBO and WO?” n.d. TU Delft. Accessed December 4, 2024. https://www.tudelft.nl/en/education/study-programme-orientation/preparing-for-a-bachelor/whats-the-difference-between-hbo-and-wo.

 

[VS1]can you add one of the requirements in registering/ attending the university that makes it challenging for expat students?

बांग्लादेश में शैक्षिक चुनौतियांः बाल श्रम के परिणाम और भविष्य के रुझान

 

एना कोर्डेश द्वारा लिखित 

एक परिधान कारखाने में काम करने वाली महिलाएं– मरूफ रहमान द्वारा पिक्साबे से लिया गया चित्र 

विश्व व्यापार संगठन (WTO) की रिपोर्ट के अनुसार, बांग्लादेश तैयार वस्त्रों का दुनिया का दूसरा सबसे बड़ा निर्यातक है, जिसने 2020 में वैश्विक वस्त्र निर्यात का लगभग 6.4% योगदान दिया। हालांकि, यह आर्थिक सफलता एक गंभीर कीमत पर प्राप्त होती है, क्योंकि बांग्लादेशी वस्त्र उद्योग में अक्सर 5 से 17 वर्ष की आयु के बच्चों का शोषण किया जाता है और उन्हें अवैध रूप से रोजगार दिया जाता है। यह अनैतिक प्रथा न केवल उन्हें शिक्षा से वंचित करती है, बल्कि उनके भविष्य के अवसरों को भी सीमित कर देती है। बुनियादी शिक्षा तक पहुंच के बिना, इन बच्चों को कारखानों में कम वेतन वाली नौकरियों में काम करने के लिए मजबूर होना पड़ता है, जिससे वे उन कौशलों को हासिल करने का मौका गंवा देते हैं, जो भविष्य में बेहतर वेतन वाली नौकरियों की ओर ले जा सकते हैं। परिणामस्वरूप, वे गरीबी और कम वेतन वाले कार्यों के एक दुष्चक्र में फंस जाते हैं, जिससे बाल श्रम का चक्र निरंतर बना रहता है। गुणवत्तापूर्ण शिक्षा की अनुपस्थिति इन बच्चों को उनके वास्तविक क्षमता से वंचित कर देती है और उन्हें अवैध और शारीरिक रूप से कष्टकारी श्रम से मुक्त होने की संभावना को गंभीर रूप से कम कर देती है। 

जागरूक उपभोक्ताओं के रूप में, यह आवश्यक है कि हम उन परिधानों की संपूर्ण आपूर्ति श्रृंखला पर विचार करें, जिन्हें हम खरीदते हैं, जिसमें उत्पादन पक्ष भी शामिल है, और अपनी खरीदारी के फैसलों के संभावित परिणामों को स्वीकार करें। हमें यह जानना चाहिए कि क्या एक टी-शर्ट नैतिक रूप से निर्मित की गई है और क्या उसके निर्माण के किसी भी चरण में बाल श्रम का उपयोग किया गया है। इन सवालों पर विचार करना बांग्लादेश के सैकड़ों बच्चों को गुणवत्तापूर्ण शिक्षा प्राप्त करने और गरीबी की बेड़ियों से मुक्त होने का अवसर प्रदान कर सकता है। 

इस लेख का उद्देश्य बांग्लादेश में असमान शैक्षिक उपलब्धियों के मुद्दे के बारे में जागरूकता बढ़ाना है, जिसे बाल श्रम की व्यापकता और बाल श्रम को समाप्त करने के लिए अपर्याप्त सरकारी नीतियों द्वारा और अधिक बढ़ावा मिलता है। 

बांग्लादेश में गरीबी का संक्षिप्त इतिहास

1971 में स्वतंत्रता प्राप्त करने के बाद, बांग्लादेश को अपनी 80% आबादी के साथ गरीबी रेखा से नीचे रहने के साथ एक महत्वपूर्ण चुनौती का सामना करना पड़ा। हालांकि, पिछले कुछ वर्षों में, सरकार ने अपनी विकास रणनीति में गरीबी उन्मूलन को एक प्रमुख प्राथमिकता दी है। नतीजतन, गरीबी दर 80% से घटकर 24.3% हो गई है, जिसका अर्थ है कि बांग्लादेश में लगभग 35 मिलियन लोग गरीबी रेखा से नीचे रह रहे हैं (यूनेस्को, 2009) । 

गरीबी से निपटने के लिए सरकार के प्रयासों को निरंतर आर्थिक विकास द्वारा समर्थित किया गया है, जो आंशिक रूप से ठोस व्यापक आर्थिक नीतियों और तैयार कपड़ों के निर्यात में वृद्धि से प्रेरित है। नतीजतन, कुल गरीबी दर 2016 में 13.47% से घटकर 2022 में 10.44% हो गई है (ढाका ट्रिब्यून,2022) ।

इन उपलब्धियों के बावजूद, हाल के रुझानों से पता चलता है कि बांग्लादेश में गरीबी में कमी की दर में कमी आई है। इसके अलावा, गरीबी उन्मूलन उपायों का प्रभाव ग्रामीण और शहरी क्षेत्रों के बीच असमान रहा है, क्योंकि देश तेजी से शहरीकरण से गुजर रहा है। यह इंगित करता है कि गरीबी को कम करने में प्रगति हुई है, लेकिन देश के विभिन्न क्षेत्रों में गरीबी में समान कमी सुनिश्चित करने में चुनौतियां बनी हुई हैं।  

हालाँकि बांग्लादेश ने तेजी से आर्थिक विकास का अनुभव किया है और इसे सबसे तेजी से बढ़ते देशों में से एक माना जाता है, आय असमानता एक महत्वपूर्ण और महत्वपूर्ण मुद्दा बना हुआ है। वास्तव में, बांग्लादेश में आय असमानता अभूतपूर्व स्तर पर पहुंच गई है जो 1972 के बाद से नहीं देखी गई है। तैयार वस्त्र निर्यात उद्योग के विकास के बावजूद, इस आर्थिक क्षेत्र के लाभों को समान रूप से वितरित नहीं किया गया है, जिससे मानव विकास सूचकांक में 189 देशों में से 133 वें स्थान पर है। 

आय असमानता का एक कठोर संकेतक जनसंख्या के निचले 40% और सबसे अमीर 10% के बीच आय शेयरों का विपरीत है। निचले 40% की आय का हिस्सा केवल 21% है, जबकि सबसे अमीर 10% 27% की काफी अधिक हिस्सेदारी का आनंद लेते हैं, जो धन वितरण में तेज असमानता को दर्शाता है (विश्व बैंक,2023)। आय वितरण में ये असमानताएं बांग्लादेश में आय असमानता को दूर करने की तत्काल आवश्यकता को उजागर करती हैं, क्योंकि यह समावेशी और न्यायसंगत विकास प्राप्त करने के लिए चुनौतियां पेश करती है। इस मुद्दे से निपटने के प्रयासों के लिए एक व्यापक दृष्टिकोण की आवश्यकता होती है जो आर्थिक नीतियों, सामाजिक कल्याण कार्यक्रमों और लक्षित हस्तक्षेपों जैसे कारकों पर विचार करता है ताकि यह सुनिश्चित किया जा सके कि आर्थिक विकास के लाभों को आबादी के सभी वर्गों के बीच अधिक व्यापक रूप से साझा किया जाए। 

बांग्लादेश में बाल श्रम

बांग्लादेश के भीतर अंतर्निहित असमानता और आय असमानताओं का देश भर में बच्चों की शैक्षिक प्राप्ति पर स्पष्ट प्रभाव पड़ता है। दुर्भाग्य से बांग्लादेश के कई हिस्सों में बाल श्रम प्रचलित है, विशेष रूप से ग्रामीण क्षेत्रों में जहां गरीबी दर अधिक है और शिक्षा तक पहुंच सीमित है। चटगाँव, राजशाही और सिलहट जैसे जिलों में विशेष रूप से बाल श्रम की उच्च घटनाएं हैं, क्योंकि वे बांग्लादेश के ग्रामीण बाहरी इलाकों में स्थित हैं, जो उपरोक्त अंतर-देश असमानता को उजागर करते हैं।

इस असमानता के परिणामस्वरूप गरीबी के बांग्लादेशी बच्चों के लिए गंभीर परिणाम हैं, जो गरीबी से निपटने के लिए अवैध रोजगार में संलग्न होने के लिए मजबूर हैं। हर पांच में से लगभग तीन बच्चे कृषि क्षेत्र में कार्यरत हैं, जबकि 14.7% औद्योगिक क्षेत्र में काम करते हैं, और शेष 23.3% सेवा क्षेत्र में काम करते हैं। (ग्लोबल पीपल स्ट्रैटजिस्ट, 2021). हालाँकि बांग्लादेश की सरकार ने 2022 की शुरुआत में अंतर्राष्ट्रीय श्रम संगठन कन्वेंशन की पुष्टि की, जो स्पष्ट रूप से अनुच्छेद 138 में रोजगार के लिए न्यूनतम आयु निर्धारित करता है, बांग्लादेश में बच्चों को बाल श्रम के सबसे खराब रूपों के अधीन किया जाता है, जिसमें वाणिज्यिक यौन शोषण और मछली और ईंट उत्पादन को सुखाने जैसी गतिविधियों में जबरन श्रम शामिल है।

एक परेशान करने वाला पहलू यह है कि बांग्लादेश श्रम अधिनियम अनौपचारिक क्षेत्र पर लागू नहीं होता है, जहां बांग्लादेश में अधिकांश बाल श्रम होता है। घरेलू काम सहित विभिन्न क्षेत्रों में बाल श्रमिकों के खिलाफ हिंसा की रिपोर्ट दर्ज की गई है। 2018 में, बांग्लादेश में 400,000 से अधिक बच्चे घरेलू काम में काम करते थे, जिसमें लड़कियों के साथ अक्सर उनके नियोक्ता द्वारा दुर्व्यवहार किया जाता था। इसके अतिरिक्त, रिपोर्टों से संकेत मिलता है कि जनवरी से नवंबर 2012 तक, 28 बच्चों को घरेलू नौकरानियों के रूप में काम करते हुए यातना दी गई थी (ग्लोबल पीपल स्ट्रैटजिस्ट, 2021)। 

ये बच्चे अपने परिवार के भरण-पोषण के लिए पूरी तरह से जीवित रहने की आवश्यकता के कारण औपचारिक और अनौपचारिक दोनों क्षेत्रों में कार्यबल में शामिल होने के लिए मजबूर हैं, और उनकी पढ़ाई पर लौटने की संभावना नहीं है। यूनिसेफ की एक रिपोर्ट से पता चला है कि 14 साल से कम उम्र के बच्चे जो काम के लिए स्कूल छोड़ चुके हैं, वे प्रति सप्ताह औसतन 64 घंटे काम कर रहे हैं। इस संख्या को परिप्रेक्ष्य में रखते हुए, यूरोपीय श्रम कानून ओवरटाइम सहित प्रति सप्ताह 48 घंटे तक काम करने के घंटों को सीमित करते हैं (यूनिसेफ, 2021)। 

सुबर्णोग्राम के स्कूल का दौरा: दलित दलित मोची के बच्चे। मैथ्यू बेकर, 2012 शांति फेलो, सुबर्णोग्राम फाउंडेशन, सोनारगांव, बांग्लादेश । 

वर्तमान शैक्षिक तस्वीर 

बांग्लादेश में शैक्षिक उपलब्धियों का मुद्दा महत्वपूर्ण असमानताओं को दर्शाता है, जो देश में संरचनात्मक असमानताओं और शिक्षा क्षेत्र के शासन में कमजोरियों से संबंधित है। 

स्कूल में भागीदारी की दरें भी असमानताओं को उजागर करती हैं, जिसमें 10% आधिकारिक प्राथमिक स्कूल की आयु के बच्चे स्कूल से बाहर हैं। बांग्लादेश में प्राथमिक विद्यालय की आयु के बच्चों के बीच सबसे बड़ी असमानता सबसे गरीब और सबसे अमीर बच्चों के बीच देखी जाती है, जिसे देश में घरेलू असमानता से जोड़ा जा सकता है। यह असमानता एक 2019 की यूनीसेफ रिपोर्ट द्वारा समर्थित है, जिसमें बताया गया है कि उच्च माध्यमिक विद्यालय की पूर्णता दर सबसे अमीर बच्चों के लिए 50% है, जबकि सबसे गरीब बच्चों के लिए केवल 12% (यूनीसेफ, 2019) है। 

बांग्लादेश सरकार ने गरीब बच्चों के लिए लक्षित एक शर्तित नकद हस्तांतरण कार्यक्रम के माध्यम से प्राथमिक स्तर पर शिक्षा असमानता को दूर करने का प्रयास किया है, जो ग्रामीण छात्रों के 40% को कवर करता है। हालाँकि, यह कार्यक्रम गरीब बच्चों का एक बड़ा हिस्सा कवर नहीं करता, हालाँकि उनकी गरीबी का स्तर बहुत उच्च है। इस पहल के परिणामस्वरूप प्राथमिक विद्यालय में नामांकन में तेजी से वृद्धि हुई है, जिसमें 7.8 मिलियन बच्चों को प्रति बच्चे $1 की छात्रवृत्ति प्राप्त हो रही है। 

फिर भी, गैर-गरीबों के पक्ष में पूर्वाग्रही निर्णय लेने के कारण, सरकार का शिक्षा पर आवर्ती खर्च असमान रूप से आवंटित किया गया है, जिसमें कुल सरकारी खर्च का 68% गैर-गरीबों की ओर निर्देशित किया गया है, जबकि यह समूह केवल प्राथमिक विद्यालय की आयु जनसंख्या का 50% है (विश्व बैंक, 2018)। ये आंकड़े यह दर्शाते हैं कि जबकि बांग्लादेश में शैक्षणिक उपलब्धियों में सुधार के लिए सरकारी इरादे हो सकते हैं, वास्तविकता एक अलग तस्वीर प्रस्तुत करती है, जिसमें ग्रामीण बच्चों को राष्ट्रीय शैक्षणिक शासन के संदर्भ में निरंतर नुकसान का सामना करना पड़ता है। 

 निष्कर्ष 

संक्षेप में, गुणवत्ता वाली शिक्षा गरीबी के उन्मूलन के लिए आवश्यक है, जो बच्चों को एक बेहतर जीवन का अवसर देती है। बच्चों को बाल श्रम से दूर ले जाने में मदद करने के लिए, परिवार की गरीबी में कमी पर जोर देना आवश्यक है। केवल गुणवत्ता वाली शैक्षणिक उपलब्धि हर बच्चे के लिए उपलब्ध होनी चाहिए, चाहे उनका सामाजिक-आर्थिक पृष्ठभूमि कुछ भी हो, ताकि बांग्लादेश की भविष्य की पीढ़ी सरकारी सहायता कार्यक्रमों के तहत समृद्ध हो सके। बांग्लादेश सरकार का प्राथमिक उद्देश्य बच्चों को बाल श्रम के हानिकारक प्रभावों से बचाना और उनकी गुणवत्ता वाली शिक्षा सुनिश्चित करना होना चाहिए। 

असमान गुणवत्ता की शैक्षणिक उपलब्धि को कम करने का पहला समाधान सरकारी नीतियों को व्यापक बनाना है, ताकि हाशिए पर रहने वाले लोगों की वित्तीय समावेशिता सुनिश्चित हो सके। शिक्षा में समानता को प्राथमिकता देने वाली उचित मैक्रोइकॉनॉमिक नीति अपनाना आवश्यक है। शैक्षिक संसाधनों के आवंटन में अधिक पारदर्शिता बांग्लादेश सरकार को अधिक उपयोगितावादी दृष्टिकोण अपनाने के लिए मजबूर करेगी। संसाधनों का यह नया आवंटन स्कूलों में शिक्षकों की पर्याप्त संख्या की भर्ती जैसी मुलायम बुनियादी ढांचे में अधिक रुचि पैदा करेगा। 

इस मुद्दे का एक और समाधान यह होगा कि बांग्लादेश सरकार गुणवत्ता शिक्षा के महत्व के बारे में जागरूकता को प्रभावी ढंग से बढ़ावा दे। यह जागरूकता अभियान केवल शहरी क्षेत्रों को नहीं, बल्कि उन ग्रामीण क्षेत्रों को भी प्राथमिकता देनी चाहिए, जहां गरीबी दर विशेष रूप से उच्च है। 

इसके अतिरिक्त, जागरूकता बढ़ाने के लिए एक पूर्वापेक्षा के रूप में, बांग्लादेश सरकार को आवश्यक बुनियादी ढाँचे पर ध्यान केंद्रित करना चाहिए, जो लोगों को शिक्षा संबंधी जानकारी तक पहुँचने में सक्षम बनाता है। इसका मतलब है कि देश में गरीबी के मूल कारणों को संबोधित करना, ताकि ऐसा वातावरण बनाया जा सके जहाँ बच्चे श्रम में मजबूर न हों और वे शिक्षा के अवसरों का लाभ उठा सकें और सामान्य बचपन का अनुभव कर

सकें।  यह सुनिश्चित करना कि हर बच्चे को गुणवत्ता वाली शिक्षा और सुरक्षित पालन-पोषण का अवसर मिले, अत्यंत महत्वपूर्ण है।   

 

संदर्भ 

यूनेस्को। 2009. “बांग्लादेश में शासन और शिक्षा की असमानता।” 16 अप्रैल 2023 को एक्सेस किया गया।  https://unesdoc.unesco.org/ark:/48223/pf0000180086/PDF/180086eng.pdf.multi#. 

यूनीसेफ। 2021. “बांग्लादेश के 37 मिलियन बच्चों का भविष्य खतरे में है, क्योंकि उनकी शिक्षा COVID-19 महामारी से गंभीर रूप से प्रभावित हुई है।” 14 अप्रैल 2023 को एक्सेस किया गया। https://www.unicef.org/bangladesh/en/press-releases/future-37-million-children-bangladesh-risk-their-education-severely-affected-covid. 

यूनीसेफ. n.d. “चुनौती” अप्रैल 2023 में एक्सेस किया गया। https://www.unicef.org/bangladesh/en/education. 

ग्लोबल पीपल स्ट्रैटिजिस्ट। 2021. “बांग्लादेश में बाल श्रम के बारे में तथ्य।” 13 अप्रैल 2023 को एक्सेस किया गया। https://www.globalpeoplestrategist.com/title-facts-about-child-labor-in-bangladesh/. 

होसेन, आउलाद, एस.एम. मुजाहिदुल इस्लाम, और सोगिर खंडोकर। 2010. “बांग्लादेश में बाल श्रम और बाल शिक्षा: मुद्दे, परिणाम और संलग्नताएँ।” अंतर्राष्ट्रीय व्यापार अनुसंधान मुद्दे 3, को संख्या. 2: 1-8। 

ढाका ट्रिब्यून। 2022. “रिपोर्ट: 35 मिलियन बांग्लादेशी अभी भी गरीबी रेखा से नीचे जीवन यापन कर रहे हैं।” 13 अप्रैल 2023 को एक्सेस किया गया। https://www.dhakatribune.com/business/2023/01/22/report-35m-bangladeshis-still-live-below-poverty-line. 

विश्व बैंक। 2023. “गरीबी और समानता ब्रीफ।” 10 अप्रैल 2023 को एक्सेस किया गया। https://databankfiles.worldbank.org/public/ddpext_download/poverty/987B9C90-CB9F-4D93-AE8C-750588BF00QA/current/Global_POVEQ_BGD.pdf. 

अंतर्राष्ट्रीय श्रम रिपोर्टों का ब्यूरो। 2021. “बाल श्रम और बलात्कारी श्रम रिपोर्ट।” 10 अप्रैल 2023 को एक्सेस किया गया। https://www.dol.gov/agencies/ilab/resources/reports/child-labor/bangladesh. 

यूनीसेफ। 2019. “बांग्लादेश शिक्षा तथ्य पत्रक 2020।” 13 अप्रैल 2023 को एक्सेस किया गया। file:///Users/annakordesch/Downloads/Bangladesh-Education-Fact-Sheets_V7%20(1).pdf. 

विश्व बैंक। 2018. “राष्ट्रीय शिक्षा प्रोफ़ाइल।” 14 अप्रैल 2023 को एक्सेस किया गया। https://www.epdc.org/sites/default/files/documents/EPDC_NEP_2018_Bangladesh.pdf. 

featured image, Women working at a garment factory – Image by Maruf Rahman from Pixabay

Governmental Policies For Education In Bolivia 

Written by Pedro Fonseca

Introduction 

One of the particularities when analysing the Plurinational State of Bolivia is the state configuration that reflects the cultural, ethnic, and linguistic diversity of the country. This recognition and coexistence of multiple indigenous nations within Bolivian territory creates a series of specific challenges in the formulation of public policies. 

The fundamental principle guiding these particularities is the decolonisation and plurinationality of the Bolivian State. While decolonisation seeks to break away from colonial structures, which are the institutions, laws, and practices imposed during the colonial period and which continued to marginalise indigenous populations even after the country’s independence. Plurinationality refers to the recognition by the state of the equality and sovereignty of all indigenous nations and peoples within the country, rejecting the idea that the state should be homogeneous. (Estado Plurinacional de Bolivia, 2009, Article 9). 

The Bolivian constitution, based on the principles of decolonisation and plurinationality, acknowledges the ethnic and cultural diversity of 36 indigenous nations and peoples1, as well as other ethnic groups, thereby ensuring that the cultures of these nations are protected by the State (Estado Plurinacional de Bolivia, 2009, Articles 5, 30). Furthermore, the Bolivian constitution guarantees the self-management of indigenous peoples in their territories and the practice of their norms and customs (Estado Plurinacional de Bolivia, 2009, Articles 2). 

These rights are reflected in an educational plan that seeks to respect and promote the country’s cultural and linguistic diversity. Consequently, Bolivian education is guided by interculturality and bilingualism, promoting instruction in both Spanish and indigenous languages. 

However, it is important to emphasise that this context is relatively recent. The current Bolivian constitution was approved in 2009 amidst significant changes in Bolivian society, including the election of Evo Morales as president, the first indigenous person to be elected to the executive office in the country’s history. Indeed, when examining Bolivia’s political precedents, one observes a country marked by significant political instability and profound social inequalities. It is worth noting that Bolivia has experienced more than 190 attempted coups d’état since its independence in 1825. 

This article aims to present educational policies put in place throughout Bolivian history and compile data that showcase the results of these measures. 

Evolution of Bolivian Educational Policies 

  • Education Code of 1955 

Bolivian education in the mid-20th century was characterised by its centralisation, with low coverage in rural areas and high dropout rates. During this period, the main government policy was the 1955 Education Code, also known as Code 55.  

Through this decree, the government expanded education to rural areas, which until then had been restricted to small sectors of society (IIPP, 2023, p.56). Additionally, the Education Code and the Teacher Classification Law were enacted, creating a better structure and organisation for school administration. Among these structures was the creation of the Ministry of Education (IIPP, 2023, p.56). 

Code 55 aimed to create a uniform structure for the Bolivian educational system, with the goal of enabling better planning and implementation of public education policies (Suarez, 1986). To this end, approximately 23% of the country’s general budget was allocated to education (IIPP, 2023, p.59). 

Despite the efforts, the results achieved by the 1955 Education Code were far from those projected (IIPP, 2023, p.61). The formulation of Code 55 was carried out by a non-indigenous and urban elite. In other words, the project lacked historical adherence, as most of the population was composed of indigenous peoples living in rural areas. 

  • Educational Reform Program (1994) 

The 1994 Education Reform sought to deepen the specifically educational character of the 1955 Education Code (IIPP, 2023, p.74). Two points stand out in the 1994 Education Reform. First, Educación Intercultural Bilingüe (EIB), a demand of indigenous peoples since the 1980s and considered an “instrument of liberation” (Arispe, 2020). The EIB was implemented in 1988 with the financial and technical support of UNICEF through an agreement with the Ministry of Education (IIPP, 2023, p.80). The second point was the expansion of teacher training centers in the country, amplifying professional development for educators.  

 As a result of the reforms, data from the Instituto de Investigaciones Pedagógicas Plurinacional show that in 2004, the school enrolment rate increased by 60% at the initial level, 34.5% at the primary level, and 94.8% at the secondary level. In addition, the number of school units increased from 12,000 in 1997 to more than 13,000 in 2004. The same happened with the number of educational units, which reached nearly 15,000 (IIPP, 2023, p.79). 

Despite its importance, Educación Intercultural Bilingüe (EIB) has been criticised for the way it was conducted. The main argument is that it consists of disseminating teaching and “official knowledge” through native indigenous languages (IIPP, 2023, p.82). 

  • Education Law No. 70 “Avelino Siñani-Elizardo Pérez” (2010) 

During a period of political and economic instability at the beginning of the century, Bolivia saw the emergence of Evo Morales, a union and indigenous leader, as the main figure in the 2005 presidential race. Elected with more than half of the total votes, Evo Morales implemented a series of structural reforms in Bolivia, nationalising gas, one of the country’s main commodities, and enacting a constitutional reform that established the Plurinational State of Bolivia. 

In education, the main policy was the implementation of Law No. 70 “Avelino Siñani-Elizardo Pérez”, which aimed to promote intercultural and bilingual education, decolonise the curriculum—replacing the traditional curriculum, which often marginalised indigenous knowledge, with one that incorporates local cultural knowledge and practices—and reinforce community participation, aiming to increase the involvement of communities and local authorities in school management and educational decision-making (Estado Plurinacional de Bolivia, 2010). 

It is worth noting that, in addition to the Avelino Siñani-Elizardo Pérez Law, a series of other educational policies were formulated. According to the IIPP, Bolivian educational policy consists of a set of goods, services, and transfers that states mobilise to guarantee the right to education (UNESCO-IIPP, 2024). The table below highlights some of the current policies in place.  

Table 1. Policies according to focus of intervention. 

Current policies  Responsible agency 
Bono Juancito Pinto  Ministerio de Educación, Deportes y Culturas 
Programa Nacional de Alimentación Complementaria

Escolar (PNACE 2015-2020) 

 Ministerio de Educación, Deportes y Culturas 
Programa de Formación Complementaria para Maestras y

Maestros en Ejercicio (PROFOCOM) 

 Ministerio de Educación, Deportes y Culturas 
Programa Nacional de Alfabetización Yo Sí puedo  Ministerio de Educación, Deportes y Culturas 
Programa Nacional de Post Alfabetización  Ministerio de Educación, Deportes y Culturas 
Programa Centros de Apoyo Integral Pedagógico (CAIP)  Ministerio de Educación, Deportes y Culturas 
Centros de Apoyo Integral Pedagógico – Aula Hospitalaria  Ministerio de Educación, Deportes y Culturas 

Source: UNESCO (2024) 

Conclusion 

The results of the implemented policies have led to increased access to education and higher attendance rates among students. Data from the 2021 National Voluntary Report (UDAPE) show that, between 2015-2019, the attendance rate of the school-age population (4-17 years old) rose from 86% to 90.8%. The most significant increase in attendance rates was observed at the initial level, which rose from 36.5% to 61.3%, followed by the primary level, which increased from 96.9% to 98.7% (UDAPE, 2021, p.31). 

Another important piece of data is the number of enrolments. According to data from the General Directorate of Planning, in 2023, enrolment reached 2,951,164 students, of which 891,386 (30.20%) were from rural areas and 2,059,778 (69.80%) from urban areas. Regarding gender distribution, 1,445,375 (48.98%) were female and 1,505,789 (51.02%) were male (Ministerio de Educación, 2024). 

The Plurinational State of Bolivia has made substantial progress in providing education to its population. However, it still faces several challenges, including regional and geographic inequalities and income disparities. In addition to these issues, the country still grapples with a history of political instability that continues to affect the Bolivian people. 

 

Featured Photo by Alexander Grey on Unsplash

 

References 

Arispe, V. (2020). Educación intercultural: La perspectiva de los pueblos indígenas de Bolivia. Revista Caracol, (20), 167-186. Faculdade de Filosofia, Letras e Ciências Humanas da Universidade de São Paulo. https://doi.org/10.7440/res64.2018.03 

Estado Plurinacional de Bolivia (2009). Constitución Política del Estado Plurinacional de Bolivia.  Retrieved from http://www.gacetaoficialdebolivia.gob.bo/app/webroot/archivos/CONSTITUCION.pdf 

Estado Plurinacional de Bolivia (2010). Ley de la Educación Avelino Siñani-Elizardo Pérez. Retrieved from https://bolivia.infoleyes.com/norma/2676/ley-de-la-educacion-avelino-si%C3%B1ani-elizardo-perez-070  

Instituto de Investigaciones Pedagógicas Plurinacional (IIPP). (2023). Hitos de la educación en Bolivia – Serie Histórica N° I. Retrieved from https://www.ine.gob.bo/publicaciones/hitos-educacion  

UDAPE (2021). Informe Nacional Voluntario Retrieved from https://www.udape.gob.bo/portales_html/ODS/28230Bolivia_VNR.pdf 

Ministerio de Educación (2023). Equipe de Estatística Retrieved from https://seie.minedu.gob.bo/reportes/estadisticas/grupo1/matricula  

UNESCO (2024). Bolívia. https://siteal.iiep.unesco.org/pais/bolivia#Caracterizaci%C3%B3n 

Suárez Arnez, C. (1986). Historia de la educación boliviana. Don Bosco. 

The Right to Education Act in India: Success and Challenges in Implementation

By Mahnoor Ali

The Right to Education (RTE) Act, officially known as the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act is a landmark piece of legislation in India that requires free and compulsory education for children aged 6 to 14. It was enacted by the Parliament of India on August 4, 2009, and came into effect on April 1, 2010. The Act is a significant step towards achieving universal primary education and ensuring that every child has access to a quality education.[1] However, in addition to its successes, the RTE Act has faced numerous challenges during its implementation. This article covers the RTE Act’s historical background, key provisions, success, and challenges in India, offering a broad picture of the legislation’s influence on the nation’s educational system.

Historical Context of the Right to Education in India

In the 86th Amendment Act of 2002, free and compulsory education for children was intended to become a basic right. In October 2003, a draft of the Free and Compulsory Education for Children Bill was created and underwent revision in 2004. In June 2005, the ‘Right to Education’ Bill was written by the Central Advisory Board of Education (CABE) committee and submitted to the Prime Minister, the National Accountability Committee (NAC), and the Ministry of HRD. But, in July 2006, the bill was rejected by the planning commission and finance committee because of a lack of funding. States were given a sample bill to make the required arrangements. The Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Bill, 2008, was ratified by the President in August 2009 after passing both Houses of Parliament in 2009. On April 1, 2010, the RTE Act and Article 21-A went into force.[2]

Key Provisions of the Right to Education Act (2009)

Some of the key provisions of the Right to Education Act include:

  • Free and Compulsory Education: The Act emphasises that no child should be denied education because of financial limitations by requiring children between the ages of 6 and 14 to receive free education.[3]
  • Infrastructure Standards: Classrooms, restrooms, and drinking water facilities must all adhere to a set of requirements for schools.
  • Reservation in Private Schools: The Act mandates that private schools set aside 25% of their seats for students from economically disadvantaged groups and economically weaker sections (EWS) in order to foster inclusion.[4]
  • Comprehensive and Continuous Evaluation: The RTE Act promotes child-friendly, comprehensive assessment techniques that support lifelong learning while discouraging the use of traditional pass/fail tests.
  • Special Provisions for Marginalised Groups: The Act aims to provide protection and additional support for children from marginalised backgrounds, such as scheduled castes, scheduled tribes, and children with disabilities, acknowledging the special problems they confront.

Successes of the Right to Education Act

The RTE Act has produced a number of beneficial results since it was put into effect, most notably a rise in enrollment rates nationwide. The reservation in private schools has brought economically disadvantaged kids into mainstream education, resulting in a notable increase in the integration of underprivileged communities.

  • Enrollment and Inclusivity: The data indicates that enrollment rates have significantly improved, particularly for girls and kids from disadvantaged families. As more girls enrol in basic and secondary education, the gender gap has substantially closed.[5]
  • Infrastructure and Teacher Quality: While the effects vary from state to state, some areas have witnessed increases in student-teacher ratios and greater infrastructure, guaranteeing that students have access to learning environments that are better suited to high-quality education.[6]
  • Public-Private Synergy: By requiring private schools to allow underprivileged pupils, the Act has contributed to a decrease in socioeconomic segregation in urban schools. Not only has this integration given disadvantaged children options, but it has also sparked some accountability and improved the standard of instruction.

Challenges in Implementing the Right to Education Act

Despite the success that the RTE Act had, its wider goals have been hampered by the difficulties in implementing it. Some of the major challenges faced in the implementation of this Act are discussed below:

  • Infrastructure Gaps: Inadequate infrastructure continues to plague many public schools, particularly those in remote areas. Some schools have struggled to satisfy RTE criteria due to a shortage of functional restrooms (particularly for ladies), poorly kept premises, and inadequate instructional resources. While urban areas have experienced advancements, rural schools frequently fall behind.
  • Teacher Shortages and Quality: Lack of qualified instructors, especially in rural regions, is a major problem. Several schools continue to fall short of the required teacher-to-student ratio. In addition, there is a clear disparity in the quality of instruction, with underqualified or poorly trained teachers having a negative impact on student achievement. Lack of accountability and absenteeism exacerbate this problem.
  • Private Schools’ Non-Compliance: Despite the RTE’s demand that private schools reserve 25% of their enrollment for students from underprivileged families, many establishments choose not to comply. Many private schools refuse to accept the necessary number of EWS pupils, either on purpose or due to ignorance. They cite a variety of operational issues, such as financial hardship.[7]
  • Shortcomings in Monitoring and Evaluation: The absence of strong systems to keep an eye on and assess how the Act is being implemented is another serious problem. Ineffective implementation and monitoring are caused by inconsistent data and a lack of collaboration between state and federal entities.
  • Socioeconomic Barriers: Children’s access to education is nevertheless hampered by socioeconomic issues like poverty, child labour, and cultural views despite of ‘free’ education. Dalit[8] children continue to face social exclusion due to caste discrimination, which is still a significant barrier for underprivileged people, particularly in rural areas.
  • COVID-19’s effects and the digital divide: The COVID-19 pandemic made already-existing disparities in educational access worse. Children from low-income households experienced a digital divide as a result of the change to online learning due to lack of access to computers, smartphones, or reliable internet connections. This brought to light the shortcomings of the RTE Act, which does not adequately address the growing significance of digital infrastructure and literacy in contemporary schooling.

Policy Recommendations

A coordinated effort from several stakeholders, including the public and private sectors, governments, and educational institutions, is necessary to overcome these obstacles. Important suggestions consist of:

  • Infrastructure Investment: The government needs to put the allocation of funding for improvement of school infrastructure as their top priority especially in rural areas. Sanitation, energy, and digital infrastructure also need to be given special consideration.
  • Teacher Training and Accountability: To raise the calibre and attendance of teachers, rigorous accountability procedures and ongoing professional development are required.
  • Improved Monitoring and Evaluation: To guarantee adherence to RTE regulations, it is imperative to fortify the monitoring structures at the federal and state levels. A more transparent process and data-driven decision-making ought to direct changes to policies.
  • Digital Inclusion: The digital divide needs to be addressed especially after the COVID-19. In order to make education egalitarian in the digital age, it is imperative that low-income students have access to gadgets, inexpensive internet, and online resources.

Conclusion

Ensuring that every kid in India has access to high-quality education has been made possible largely by the Right to Education Act. Even though there have been some noticeable achievements, such as enrollment and gender parity, the process is far from over. Achieving the entire objective of the RTE Act will require tackling implementation issues, guaranteeing compliance, and planning for the future of education. Moreover, in order to establish an education system that does not leave any child behind, stakeholders must collaborate and acknowledge that education is not only a fundamental human right but also the cornerstone of a fair and just society.

 

Featured Image source: https://shorturl.at/1s8tz

References

[1] Gorav Sharma. (2021, May 15). What is Right to Education Act (RTE Act)? Times of India Blog. Retrieved August 20, 2024, from https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/readersblog/igoravsharma/what-is-right-to-education-act-rte-act-32034/.

[2] Balram. (2020, August 17). Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009 (Right to Education Act). Vikaspedia. Retrieved August 22, 2024, from https://vikaspedia.in/education/policies-and-schemes/right-to-education/right-of-children-to-free-and-compulsory-education-act-2009-right-to-education-act.

[3] Warrier, V. S. (2023, July 4). Right to Education in India: Challenges and Opportunities – The Lex-Warrier: Online Law Journal. The Lex-Warrier: Online Law Journal. https://lex-warrier.in/right-to-education-in-india-challenges-and-opportunities.html.

[4]Rai, D. (2021, August 27). All you need to know about the Right to Education in India. iPleaders. https://blog.ipleaders.in/right-to-education-3/#Main_features_of_the_Right_to_Education_Act.

[5] Banerjee, S. (2019). Ten years of RTE Act: Revisiting achievements and examining gaps. Observe Research Foundation, 304. https://www.orfonline.org/research/ten-years-of-rte-act-revisiting-achievements-and-examining-gaps.

[6] Child Rights and You. (2024, July 30). Right to Education Act (RTE) – Know importance & responsibilities. CRY – Give Children a Happy, Healthy and Creative Childhood | CRY – India’s Leading Non-profit. https://www.cry.org/blog/what-is-the-right-to-education-act/.

[7] Goodpal, V. a. P. B. (2024, February 23). RTE Act 2009 — Issues and challenges. Issues and Challenges in India. https://socialissuesindia.wordpress.com/2020/07/17/rte-act-2009-anomalies-and-challenges/.

[8] ‘Dalit’ is a term for untouchables and outcasts, who represented the lowest stratum of the castes in the Indian subcontinent.

Educational Challenges in Bangladesh: Consequences and Future Trends of Child Labor – Urdu Translation

بنگلہ دیش میں تعلیمی چیلنجز: چائلڈ لیبر کے نتائج اور مستقبل کے رجحانات

تحریر: اینا کورڈیش

ترجمہ: ماہ نور علی

ورلڈ ٹریڈ آرگنائزیشن (ڈبلیو ٹی او) کی رپورٹ کے مطابق بنگلہ دیش دنیا میں ریڈی میڈ گارمنٹس کا دوسرا بڑا برآمد کنندہ ہے، جس کا 2020 میں عالمی گارمنٹس برآمدات میں تقریباً 6.4 فیصد حصہ تھا۔ تاہم، یہ اقتصادی کامیابی سنگین قیمت پر حاصل کی گئی ہے کیونکہ 5 سے 17 سال کی عمر کے بچے اکثر بنگلہ دیشی گارمنٹس انڈسٹری میں غیر قانونی طور پر ملازمت کرتے ہیں۔ یہ غیر اخلاقی عمل نہ صرف انہیں تعلیم سے محروم کرتا ہے بلکہ ان کے مستقبل کے مواقع کو بھی محدود کر دیتا ہے۔ بنیادی تعلیم تک رسائی کے بغیر، یہ بچے فیکٹریوں میں کم اجرت پر کام کرنے پر مجبور ہیں اور انہیں وہ مواقع نہیں ملتے جو مستقبل میں بہتر اجرت والی ملازمتوں کا باعث بن سکیں۔ اس کے نتیجے میں، وہ غربت اور کم اجرت کے کاموں کے ایک ظالمانہ دائرے میں پھنس جاتے ہیں، جس سے چائلڈ لیبر کا سلسلہ جاری رہتا ہے۔ معیاری تعلیم کی عدم موجودگی ان بچوں کو ان کی صلاحیتوں سے محروم کرتی ہے اور غیر قانونی اور جسمانی طور پر مشقت والے کاموں سے نکلنے کے ان کے مواقع کو کم کر دیتی ہے۔

بطور ذمہ دار صارفین، یہ ضروری ہے کہ ہم ان کپڑوں کی پوری سپلائی چین پر غور کریں جو ہم خریدتے ہیں، اور اس بات پر غور کریں کہ آیا ہمارے خریداری کے فیصلوں کے ممکنہ نتائج کیا ہو سکتے ہیں۔ ہمیں یہ جاننے کی ضرورت ہے کہ آیا ٹی شرٹ اخلاقی طور پر تیار کی گئی ہے اور اس کی تیاری کے کسی مرحلے میں بچوں کی مزدوری کا استعمال تو نہیں ہوا۔ ان سوالات پر غور کرنا بنگلہ دیش کے سینکڑوں بچوں کو معیاری تعلیم تک رسائی فراہم کرنے اور غربت کے چنگل سے نکلنے کا موقع فراہم کرنے میں مددگار ثابت ہو سکتا ہے۔

اس مضمون کا مقصد بنگلہ دیش میں تعلیمی حصول کے مسئلے پر شعور بیدار کرنا ہے، جس کو چائلڈ لیبر کی موجودگی اور چائلڈ لیبر کے خاتمے کے لئے حکومتی پالیسیوں کی کمی نے مزید بڑھا دیا ہے۔

بنگلہ دیش میں غربت کی مختصر تاریخ

انیس سو اکہتر 1971 میں آزادی حاصل کرنے کے بعد، بنگلہ دیش کو ایک بڑا چیلنج درپیش تھا کیونکہ اس کی 80% آبادی غربت کی لکیر سے نیچے زندگی گزار رہی تھی۔ تاہم، سالوں کے دوران حکومت نے غربت کے خاتمے کو اپنی ترقیاتی حکمت عملی میں ایک اہم ترجیح بنایا۔ اس کا نتیجہ یہ نکلا کہ غربت کی شرح 80% سے کم ہو کر 24.3% تک پہنچ گئی، جس کا مطلب یہ ہے کہ ابھی بھی بنگلہ دیش کی تقریباً 35 ملین لوگ غربت کی لکیر سے نیچے زندگی گزار رہے ہیں (یونیسکو، 2009)۔

حکومت کی غربت کے خاتمے کی کوششوں کو مستحکم اقتصادی ترقی کی حمایت حاصل ہوئی، جو جزوی طور پر صحت مند میکرو اکنامک پالیسیوں اور تیار شدہ ملبوسات کی برآمدات میں اضافے سے آئی۔ نتیجتاً، مجموعی طور پر غربت کی شرح 2016 میں 13.47% سے کم ہو کر 2022 میں 10.44% ہو گئی (ڈھاکہ ٹریبون، 2022)۔

ان کامیابیوں کے باوجود، حالیہ رجحانات ظاہر کرتے ہیں کہ بنگلہ دیش میں غربت میں کمی کی شرح سست ہو رہی ہے۔ مزید برآں، غربت کے خاتمے کے اقدامات کا اثر دیہی اور شہری علاقوں میں یکساں نہیں رہا، کیونکہ ملک تیزی سے شہری بن رہا ہے۔ یہ ظاہر کرتا ہے کہ حالانکہ غربت میں کمی کی کوششوں میں پیش رفت ہوئی ہے، مختلف علاقوں میں مساوی غربت میں کمی کو یقینی بنانے کے لئے اب بھی چیلنجز موجود ہیں۔

اگرچہ بنگلہ دیش نے تیز اقتصادی ترقی کا تجربہ کیا ہے اور اسے دنیا کے تیز ترین ترقی کرنے والے ممالک میں شمار کیا جاتا ہے، مگر آمدنی کی عدم مساوات ایک اہم اور فوری مسئلہ ہے۔ درحقیقت، بنگلہ دیش میں آمدنی کی عدم مساوات بے مثال سطحوں تک پہنچ چکی ہے جو 1972 کے بعد کبھی نہیں دیکھی گئیں۔ تیار شدہ ملبوسات کی برآمدات کی صنعت کی ترقی کے باوجود، اس اقتصادی شعبے کے فوائد یکساں طور پر تقسیم نہیں ہوئے ہیں، جس کے نتیجے میں انسانی ترقی کے انڈیکس میں بنگلہ دیش 189 ممالک میں 133 نمبر پر آ گیا ہے۔

آمدنی کی عدم مساوات کا ایک واضح اشارہ نچلے 40% آبادی اور امیر ترین 10% کے درمیان آمدنی کے حصص میں تضاد ہے۔ نچلے 40% کی آمدنی کا حصہ صرف 21% ہے، جبکہ امیر ترین 10% 27% کا حصہ حاصل کرتے ہیں، جو دولت کی تقسیم میں شدید فرق کو ظاہر کرتا ہے (ورلڈ بینک، 2023)۔ آمدنی کی تقسیم میں یہ تفاوت بنگلہ دیش میں آمدنی کی عدم مساوات کو حل کرنے کی ضرورت کو اجاگر کرتا ہے، کیونکہ یہ ملک کی ترقی کو شامل اور منصفانہ بنانے میں چیلنجز پیش کرتا ہے۔ اس مسئلے کو حل کرنے کے لئے ایک جامع نقطہ نظر کی ضرورت ہے جو اقتصادی پالیسیوں، سماجی فلاحی پروگراموں، اور مخصوص مداخلتوں جیسے عوامل کو مدنظر رکھے تاکہ اقتصادی ترقی کے فوائد کو زیادہ وسیع پیمانے پر تمام طبقوں میں تقسیم کیا جا سکے۔۔

بنگلہ دیش میں چائلڈ لیبر

بنبنگلہ دیش میں پائی جانے والی اندرونی عدم مساوات اور آمدنی میں فرق کا بچوں کی تعلیمی کامیابی پر واضح اثر پڑتا ہے۔ بدقسمتی سے، بنگلہ دیش کے متعدد حصوں میں چائلڈ لیبر عام ہے، خاص طور پر دیہی علاقوں میں جہاں غربت کی شرح زیادہ ہے اور تعلیم تک رسائی محدود ہے۔ چٹگانگ، راجشاہی، اور سلہٹ جیسے اضلاع میں خاص طور پر چائلڈ لیبر کے واقعات زیادہ ہیں، کیونکہ یہ علاقے بنگلہ دیش کے دیہی کناروں میں واقع ہیں، جو ملک کے اندر موجود عدم مساوات کو ظاہر کرتے ہیں۔

اس عدم مساوات کے نتیجے میں پیدا ہونے والی غربت کا بنگلہ دیشی بچوں پر سنگین اثر پڑتا ہے، جنہیں غربت کا مقابلہ کرنے کے لیے غیر قانونی ملازمتوں میں مصروف ہونے پر مجبور کیا جاتا ہے۔ تقریباً ہر پانچ میں سے تین بچے زرعی شعبے میں کام کرتے ہیں، جبکہ 14.7% بچے صنعتی شعبے میں کام کرتے ہیں، اور باقی 23.3% بچے خدمات کے شعبے میں کام کرتے ہیں (گلوبل پیپل اسٹریٹیجسٹ، 2021)۔ اگرچہ بنگلہ دیش نے 2022 کے شروع میں بین الاقوامی محنت تنظیم (ILO) کے کنونشن کی توثیق کی تھی، جس میں ملازمت کے لیے کم سے کم عمر کو آرٹیکل 138 میں واضح طور پر بیان کیا گیا ہے، پھر بھی بنگلہ دیش میں بچے بدترین چائلڈ لیبر کی شکلوں کا سامنا کرتے ہیں، بشمول تجارتی جنسی استحصال اور زبردستی مشقت جیسے مچھلی خشک کرنے اور اینٹوں کی پیداوار کے کام۔

ایک پریشان کن پہلو یہ ہے کہ بنگلہ دیش کا محنت قانون غیر رسمی شعبے پر لاگو نہیں ہوتا، جہاں بنگلہ دیش میں زیادہ تر چائلڈ لیبر ہوتی ہے۔ مختلف شعبوں میں بچوں کے محنت کشوں کے ساتھ تشدد کے واقعات رپورٹ ہوئے ہیں، جن میں گھریلو کام بھی شامل ہے۔ 2018 میں بنگلہ دیش میں 400,000 سے زیادہ بچے گھریلو کام میں مصروف تھے، اور لڑکیاں اکثر اپنے مالکان کے ہاتھوں بدسلوکی کا شکار ہوئیں۔ اس کے علاوہ، رپورٹس سے پتہ چلتا ہے کہ جنوری سے نومبر 2012 تک 28 بچوں کو گھریلو ملازم کے طور پر کام کرتے ہوئے تشدد کا نشانہ بنایا گیا (گلوبل پیپل اسٹریٹیجسٹ، 2021)۔

یہ بچے اپنے خاندانوں کی کفالت کے لیے محض بقا کی ضرورت کے تحت رسمی اور غیر رسمی شعبوں میں کام کرنے پر مجبور ہیں اور ان کے دوبارہ پڑھائی میں واپس آنے کا امکان نہیں ہے۔ یونیسیف کی ایک رپورٹ نے یہ انکشاف کیا کہ وہ بچے جو کام کرنے کے لیے اسکول چھوڑ چکے ہیں اور عمر کے 14 سال سے کم ہیں، اوسطاً 64 گھنٹے فی ہفتہ کام کرتے ہیں۔ اس تعداد کو تناظر میں رکھتے ہوئے، یورپی محنت کے قوانین ہفتے میں 48 گھنٹے کام کرنے کی حد رکھتے ہیں، جس میں اوور ٹائم شامل ہے (یونیسیف، 2021)۔

موجودہ تعلیمی منظرنامہ

بنگلہ دیش میں تعلیمی حصول کا مسئلہ نمایاں طور پر عدم مساوات کو ظاہر کرتا ہے، جس کی وجہ ملک میں موجود ساختیاتی عدم مساوات اور تعلیمی شعبے کی حکمرانی میں کمزوریاں ہیں۔

اسکول میں شرکت کی شرح بھی تفاوت کو اجاگر کرتی ہے، جہاں 10% بچوں کی رسمی پرائمری اسکول عمر کے باوجود اسکول نہیں جاتے۔ بنگلہ دیش میں پرائمری اسکول کی عمر کے بچوں میں سب سے بڑی تفاوت غریب اور امیر بچوں کے درمیان دیکھنے کو ملتی ہے، جس کا تعلق ملک میں گھریلو سطح پر موجود وسیع تر عدم مساوات سے ہے۔ اس تفاوت کی تائید 2019 کی یونیسیف کی رپورٹ سے ہوتی ہے جس میں بتایا گیا کہ امیر بچوں کے لیے اوپر ثانوی اسکول مکمل کرنے کی شرح 50% ہے جبکہ غریب بچوں کے لیے یہ شرح صرف 12% ہے (یونیسیف، 2019)۔

بنگلہ دیشی حکومت نے پرائمری سطح پر تعلیم کی عدم مساوات کو حل کرنے کی کوشش کی ہے، جس کے لیے غریب بچوں کے لیے مشروط کیش ٹرانسفر پروگرام متعارف کرایا گیا ہے، جو دیہی علاقوں کے 40% طلباء کو کور کرتا ہے۔ تاہم، یہ پروگرام غریب بچوں کے ایک بڑے حصے کو کور نہیں کرتا، حالانکہ ان کی غربت کی سطح زیادہ ہے۔ اس اقدام کی وجہ سے پرائمری اسکول میں داخلہ کی شرح میں تیزی سے اضافہ ہوا ہے، جس میں 7.8 ملین بچوں کو 1 ڈالر فی بچہ وظیفہ مل رہا ہے۔

تاہم، غیر غریبوں کو ترجیح دینے والے متعصبانہ فیصلوں کی وجہ سے حکومت کی تعلیمی اخراجات پر مسلسل خرچ غیر متناسب طور پر مختص کیا جاتا ہے، جس میں 68% حکومت کے کل اخراجات غیر غریبوں پر خرچ ہوتے ہیں، حالانکہ یہ گروہ پرائمری اسکول کی عمر کے بچوں کی کل تعداد کا صرف 50% ہیں (ورلڈ بینک، 2018)۔ یہ اعداد و شمار اس بات کو اجاگر کرتے ہیں کہ حالانکہ حکومت کے پاس بنگلہ دیش میں تعلیمی حصول کو بہتر بنانے کی نیت ہو سکتی ہے، حقیقت میں ایک مختلف تصویر سامنے آتی ہے، جہاں دیہی بچے قومی تعلیمی حکمرانی کے حوالے سے مسلسل مشکلات کا سامنا کر رہے ہیں۔۔

نتیجہ

مختصر یہ کہ، معیاری تعلیم غربت کے خاتمے کے لیے ضروری ہے کیونکہ یہ بچوں کو بہتر زندگی کے مواقع فراہم کرتی ہے۔ بچوں کو بچوں کی مزدوری سے دور کرنے کے لیے، خاندانوں کی غربت کو کم کرنے پر زور دینا ضروری ہے۔ صرف معیاری تعلیمی حصول ہی ہر بچے کے لیے دستیاب ہو گا، چاہے اس کا سماجی و اقتصادی پس منظر کچھ بھی ہو، تو بنگلہ دیش کی آنے والی نسل حکومت کے امدادی پروگرامز کے تحت ترقی کر سکے گی۔ بنگلہ دیش کی حکومت کا بنیادی مقصد بچوں کو بچوں کی مزدوری کے نقصان دہ اثرات سے بچانا اور ان کی معیاری تعلیم کو یقینی بنانا ہونا چاہیے۔

تعلیمی حصول میں عدم مساوات کو کم کرنے کا پہلا حل حکومت کی پالیسیوں کو مزید وسیع بنانا ہے تاکہ محروم طبقات کی مالی شمولیت کو یقینی بنایا جا سکے۔ ایسی مناسب میکرو اقتصادی پالیسی اختیار کی جائے جو تعلیمی مساوات کو ترجیح دے۔ تعلیمی وسائل کی تقسیم میں مزید شفافیت حکومت بنگلہ دیش کو ایک زیادہ فلاحی نقطہ نظر اختیار کرنے پر مجبور کرے گی۔ وسائل کی اس نئی تقسیم سے نرم انفراسٹرکچر پر زیادہ توجہ دی جائے گی جیسے اسکولوں میں اساتذہ کی مناسب تعداد کی بھرتی۔

اس مسئلے کو حل کرنے کے لیے ایک اضافی طریقہ یہ ہو گا کہ حکومت بنگلہ دیش معیاری تعلیم کی اہمیت کے بارے میں مؤثر طور پر آگاہی پھیلائے۔ یہ آگاہی مہم نہ صرف شہری علاقوں کو نشانہ بنائے، بلکہ دیہی علاقوں پر بھی توجہ دے جہاں غربت کی شرح خاص طور پر زیادہ ہے۔

مزید برآں، آگاہی بڑھانے کے لیے ایک شرط یہ ہے کہ بنگلہ دیشی حکومت کو تعلیم کے بارے میں معلومات تک رسائی فراہم کرنے کے لیے ضروری انفراسٹرکچر فراہم کرنے پر توجہ مرکوز کرنی چاہیے۔ اس کا مطلب ہے کہ ملک میں غربت کی جڑ وجوہات کو حل کیا جائے تاکہ ایسا ماحول پیدا کیا جا سکے جہاں بچے مزدوری کرنے پر مجبور نہ ہوں اور اس کے بجائے وہ تعلیمی مواقع سے فائدہ اٹھا سکیں اور ایک معمول کی بچپن کا تجربہ کر سکیں۔

یہ یقینی بنانا کہ ہر بچے کو معیاری تعلیم اور محفوظ پرورش کا موقع ملے، سب سے زیادہ اہمیت رکھتا ہے۔

References

UNESCO. 2009. “Governance and Education Inequality in Bangladesh.” Accessed April 16, 2023. https://unesdoc.unesco.org/ark:/48223/pf0000180086/PDF/180086eng.pdf.multi#.

UNICEF. 2021. “The future of 37 million children in Bangladesh is at risk with their education severely affected by the COVID-10 pandemic.” Accessed April 14, 2023. https://www.unicef.org/bangladesh/en/press-releases/future-37-million-children-bangladesh-risk-their-education-severely-affected-covid.

UNICEF. n.d. “The Challenge.” Accessed April 2023. https://www.unicef.org/bangladesh/en/education.

Global People Strategist. 2021. “Facts About Child Labor in Bangladesh.” Accessed April 13 2023. https://www.globalpeoplestrategist.com/title-facts-about-child-labor-in-bangladesh/.

Hosen, Aoulad, S.M. Mujahidul Islam, and Sogir Khandoker. 2010. “Child Labor and Child Education in Bangladesh: Issues, Consequences and Involvements.” International Business Research Issues 3, no. 2: 1-8.

Dhaka Tribune. 2022. “Report: 35m Bangladeshis still live below poverty line.” Accessed April 13, 2023. https://www.dhakatribune.com/business/2023/01/22/report-35m-bangladeshis-still-live-below-poverty-line.

World Bank. 2023. “Poverty & Equity Brief.” Accessed April 10, 2023. https://databankfiles.worldbank.org/public/ddpext_download/poverty/987B9C90-CB9F-4D93-AE8C-750588BF00QA/current/Global_POVEQ_BGD.pdf.

Bureau of International Labor Reports. 2021. “Child Labor and Forced Labor Reports.” Accessed April 10, 2023. https://www.dol.gov/agencies/ilab/resources/reports/child-labor/bangladesh.

UNICEF. 2019. “Bangladesh Education Fact Sheets 2020.” Accessed April 13, 2023. https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&opi=89978449&url=https://data.unicef.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Bangladesh-Education-Fact-Sheets_V7.pdf&ved=2ahUKEwjd1daA5PmJAxUMHhAIHRXtARkQFnoECBUQAQ&usg=AOvVaw2wM_d5zr0tWGX8NEmxJ3ha.

World Bank. 2018. “National Education Profile.” Accessed April 14, 2023. https://www.epdc.org/sites/default/files/documents/EPDC_NEP_2018_Bangladesh.pdf.

featured image, Women working at a garment factory – Image by Maruf Rahman from Pixabay

Tantangan Pendidikan di Papua Nugini

Ditulis oleh Fenna Eelkema

Pendahuluan

Papua Nugini adalah negara indah yang terdiri dari 600 pulau dan berpenduduk 10 juta jiwa. Ada lebih dari 800 bahasa berbeda yang digunakan di Papua Nugini, menjadikannya salah satu negara dengan bahasa paling beragam di dunia. Setelah dijajah oleh berbagai negara selama 250 tahun, Papua Nugini akhirnya merdeka pada tahun 1975. Sejak memperoleh kemerdekaan tersebut, Papua Nugini berupaya memberikan pendidikan yang mudah diakses dan berkualitas bagi anak-anaknya. Terlepas dari upaya-upaya ini, Papua Nugini masih menghadapi tantangan pendidikan, seperti rendahnya angka literasi, tingginya angka putus sekolah, dan kekurangan guru. Selain itu, sekolah tidak dapat diakses oleh semua anak karena alasan keuangan, kesehatan, atau geografis.

Pendidikan di Papua Nugini

Di Papua Nugini, perjalanan menuju penyediaan pendidikan yang mudah diakses dan berkualitas telah mengalami beberapa transformasi selama lima puluh tahun terakhir. Pada tahun 1973, tonggak penting dicapai dengan berdirinya sistem pendidikan nasional terpadu yang pertama. Sistem ini mengadopsi struktur 6+4+2, dimana siswa menyelesaikan enam tahun di sekolah dasar, empat tahun di sekolah menengah atas, dan terakhir, dua tahun di sekolah menengah nasional atau langsung masuk perguruan tinggi. Terlepas dari niatnya, sistem yang kaku ini membatasi otonomi siswa dalam pembelajarannya, dan sektor pendidikan masih belum mencapai tujuan yang diinginkan.

Pada tahun 1990an, Papua Nugini membentuk sistem pendidikan baru sebagai respons terhadap kebutuhan akan perubahan. Strukturnya diubah menjadi 3+6+4, dengan tiga tahun di sekolah dasar, enam tahun di sekolah menenangah pertama, dan empat tahun di sekolah menengah atas. Pergeseran ini bertujuan untuk menerapkan kurikulum berbasis hasil yang dirancang untuk menyelaraskan pendidikan dengan tujuan pembelajaran yang diinginkan. Namun, tantangan tetap ada, dan sistem pendidikan ini kesulitan mencapai tujuan yang diinginkan.

Oleh karena itu pada tahun 2021 terjadi transformasi lagi; struktur 1+6+6 yang baru diperkenalkan, menguraikan kurikulum yang dimulai dengan satu tahun Pendidikan dan Perkembangan Anak Usia Dini, diikuti oleh enam tahun pendidikan dasar dan tambahan enam tahun pendidikan menengah. Ciri khas dari struktur ini adalah mengadopsi kurikulum berbasis standar, menguraikan tolok ukur pembelajaran yang tepat bagi siswa dan memberikan pedoman yang jelas kepada pendidik untuk strategi pengajaran dan penilaian. Diharapkan struktur baru ini akan membantu meningkatkan pendidikan Papua Nugini bagi semua anak.

Tingkat literasi yang rendah

Rendahnya angka melek huruf di Papua Nugini telah menjadi kekhawatiran sejak lama; meskipun telah terjadi perbaikan dalam dua dekade terakhir, masih ada lebih dari tiga juta orang yang buta huruf. Pada tahun 2000, tingkat melek huruf adalah 57 persen; pada tahun 2010 sebesar 61%; dan pada tahun 2015, jumlahnya mencapai 63 persen. Kombinasi keragaman bahasa dan sumber daya yang tidak memadai turut menyebabkan permasalahan yang sudah berlangsung lama ini.

Tingginya angka putus sekolah juga menjadi alasan rendahnya angka melek huruf. Sekitar seperempat anak-anak berusia 6 hingga 18 tahun tidak bersekolah, dan tingkat transisi siswa sekolah dasar ke sekolah menengah pertama hanya 56%. Tekanan ekonomi/kemiskinan, tanggung jawab keluarga, atau sulitnya akses sekolah menjadi beberapa faktor yang menyebabkan siswa putus sekolah.

Untuk menurunkan angka putus sekolah, beberapa sekolah menengah telah mulai menggunakan konsep FODE (Flexible Open Distance Education) atau Pendidikan Jarak Terbuka Fleksibel, yang memungkinkan siswa untuk melanjutkan pendidikan mereka di luar ruang kelas konvensional dengan fleksibilitas; siswa diperbolehkan untuk belajar sesuai keinginan mereka di komunitas mereka, sehingga membebaskan mereka dari keterbatasan pusat kota. Program ini menunjukkan hasil yang menjanjikan, dengan lebih dari 80.000 siswa kembali bersekolah.

Ingat: selalu ada sesuatu yang bisa membuat Anda tersenyum di dunia ini. Foto oleh Vika Chartier pada Unsplash

Kualitas pendidikan di daerah terpencil

Geografi Papua Nugini yang unik dan banyaknya daerah terpencil membuat penyediaan pendidikan berkualitas ke daerah-daerah yang sulit dijangkau ini menjadi sulit. Kunci pendidikan yang berkualitas adalah guru yang berkualitas. Sayangnya, terdapat kekurangan guru di seluruh Papua Nugini; Kekurangan ini sangat parah bahkan menyebabkan anak-anak tidak dapat bersekolah. Pada tahun 2016, terdapat sekitar 10.000 posisi pengajar yang kosong, dan sebagian besar lowongan tersebut berada di daerah terpencil. Menarik guru ke daerah-daerah terpencil terbukti merupakan perjuangan yang berat. Meskipun inisiatif-inisiatif seperti ‘tunjangan sekolah jarak jauh’ dan beasiswa telah dilakukan untuk mendorong para guru bekerja di daerah-daerah terpencil, rendahnya motivasi dan keengganan untuk bekerja di daerah-daerah terpencil telah berkontribusi pada kekurangan guru yang terus-menerus. Ada pula laporan guru yang berhak menerima tunjangan tersebut namun tidak menerimanya; hal ini membuat beberapa guru enggan melakukan pekerjaan terbaik mereka.

Banyak guru juga belum menerima pelatihan dalam jabatan. Hal ini disebabkan oleh kurangnya dana. Pemerintah selama ini mengandalkan donatur untuk membiayai, namun anggarannya tidak mencukupi. Selain itu, tidak ada struktur atau tempat pelatihan reguler untuk mendukung guru di sekolah. Saat ini, ketika sistem pendidikan sedang bertransformasi menjadi kurikulum berbasis standar 1+6+6, sangatlah penting bagi para guru untuk menerima pelatihan yang tepat agar dapat menerapkan kurikulum tersebut dengan tepat.

Masalah keuangan adalah alasan lain mengapa terjadi permasalahan di daerah terpencil. Keluarga-keluarga di daerah miskin dan terpencil seringkali tidak mampu membayar biaya sekolah, yang jumlahnya mencapai lebih dari setengah pendapatan mereka. Meskipun sebagian biaya sekolah dihapuskan oleh pemerintah pusat pada tahun 1993, sekolah masih mengenakan sejumlah biaya, sehingga menimbulkan hambatan keuangan yang menghambat akses yang adil terhadap pendidikan. Selain itu, kota-kota besar di wilayah perkotaan biasanya memiliki sekolah menengah setempat, sedangkan siswa di daerah terpencil sering kali bergantung pada sekolah berasrama provinsi; menyekolahkan anak Anda ke sekolah berasrama biasanya memerlukan biaya yang lebih besar, sehingga membuat keluarga tersebut mengalami kemunduran yang lebih signifikan.

Kemiskinan dan Pelayanan Kesehatan

Banyak anak di Papua Nugini menghadapi tantangan terkait kesehatan. Beberapa tantangan kesehatan ini berasal dari kemiskinan, yang secara tidak proporsional berdampak pada daerah terpencil dan pedesaan yang dimana 85 persen penduduknya tinggal.

Salah satu tantangan kesehatannya adalah cakupan imunisasi di Papua Nugini terhenti sekitar 60 persen selama hampir sepuluh tahun. Hal ini menempatkan anak-anak pada risiko terhadap penyakit yang sebenarnya dapat dicegah dan dikendalikan melalui vaksinasi. Selain itu, bagi banyak orang, sulitnya mengakses sanitasi dan air minum yang bersih; Hal ini membuat merka sulit untuk selalu menjaga kebersihan sehingga menyebabkan penyakit menular mudah menyebar di kalangan anak-anak.

Malnutrisi adalah masalah kesehatan lainnya di Papua Nugini, yang menjadi penyebab hampir separuh kematian balita. Hampir setengah dari seluruh anak berusia 6 hingga 59 bulan (5 tahun) mengalami pertumbuhan terhambat, yang mengindikasikan kekurangan gizi kronis selama periode kritis perkembangan. Stunting tidak hanya membahayakan peluang anak untuk bertahan hidup namun juga membahayakan kesehatan umum dan pertumbuhan kognitif anak, yang dapat menimbulkan konsekuensi negatif jangka panjang.

Permasalahan lainnya adalah, bagi banyak orang, fasilitas kesehatan tidak mudah diakses. Rasio dokter terhadap penduduknya adalah satu dokter untuk setiap 17.068 orang, dibandingkan dengan Australia misalnya yang rasionya adalah satu dokter untuk setiap 302 orang. Selain itu, 90% dokter berada di daerah perkotaan, sedangkan 85% penduduknya tinggal di daerah pedesaan, sehingga jumlah dokter di daerah pedesaan tersebut semakin sedikit. Anak-anak sering kali tinggal berjam-jam jauhnya dari klinik kesehatan terdekat, harus menempuh perjalanan yang sulit dengan berjalan kaki, naik perahu, atau menggunakan transportasi lokal yang tidak dapat diandalkan. Kurangnya aksesibilitas ini memperburuk kesulitan anak-anak dalam memperoleh perawatan medis penting dan perawatan lainnya.

Karena letak geografisnya, Papua Nugini sering mengalami bencana alam seperti gempa bumi, letusan gunung berapi, banjir, tanah longsor, tsunami, dan angin topan. Peristiwa ini mengancam kesehatan masyarakat, mengganggu layanan kesehatan, dan meningkatkan kerentanan yang ada.

Untuk mengatasi tantangan kesehatan ini, Papua Nugini harus fokus pada peningkatan layanan kesehatan umum, peningkatan cakupan imunisasi, promosi gizi yang lebih baik, peningkatan aksesibilitas layanan kesehatan, dan penguatan kesiapsiagaan bencana. Dengan melakukan hal ini, Papua Nugini dapat mengambil langkah signifikan untuk menjamin masa depan yang lebih sehat dan menjanjikan bagi anak-anaknya.

Kesimpulan

Kesimpulannya, lanskap pendidikan di Papua Nugini ditandai dengan kemajuan dan tantangan yang terus-menerus. Sistem pendidikan telah mengalami banyak perubahan, dari struktur yang kaku menjadi pendekatan berbasis hasil. Penerapan struktur 1+6+6 baru-baru ini menunjukkan harapan untuk kurikulum yang lebih sukses. Namun, tantangan dalam pelatihan guru masih ada, yang mungkin berdampak pada hasil kurikulum baru ini.

Rendahnya angka literasi dan tingginya angka putus sekolah terus menghambat kemajuan. Inisiatif seperti Pendidikan Jarak Terbuka Fleksibel (FODE) telah menunjukkan potensi dalam mengatasi angka putus sekolah, namun masih banyak yang harus dilakukan untuk memastikan setiap anak mempunyai kesempatan untuk belajar.

Kurangnya guru yang berkualitas, khususnya di daerah terpencil, menjadi kendala besar karena pendidikan yang berkualitas hanya bisa terwujud jika ada guru yang berkualitas. Upaya untuk menarik guru ke wilayah ini cukup efektif namun tidak sepenuhnya berhasil.

Hambatan keuangan, masalah kesehatan, dan kurangnya akses terhadap layanan kesehatan juga menambah tantangan tersebut. Mengatasi tantangan-tantangan ini sangat penting untuk memastikan lingkungan belajar yang lebih sehat dan sukses bagi anak-anak.

Papua Nugini telah mencapai kemajuan signifikan dalam menyediakan pendidikan yang mudah diakses dan berkualitas. Meskipun perjalanan masih panjang, bangsa ini dapat menciptakan masa depan yang lebih cerah bagi anak-anaknya dengan berupaya dan bekerja sama dengan berbagai organisasi.

Sumber

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Papua New Guinea; Education, UNICEF. Retrieved from: https://www.unicef.org/png/what-we-do/education.

Sanitation in PNG: Estimating impacts and investments required to meet targets (2022) UNICEF. Retrieved from: https://www.unicef.org/png/media/2886/file/Sanitation in PNG.pdf.

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Goro, J. Is Papua New Guinea ready to implement the new 1+6+6 basic education system? (2021) The National Research Institute. Retrieved from: https://pngnri.org/index.php/news-events/research-corner/226-is-papua-new-guinea-ready-to-implement-the-new-1-6-6-basic-education-system.

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Devette-Chee, K. The challenges teachers in Papua New Guinea continue to face (2022) The National Research Institute. Retrieved from: https://pngnri.org/images/Publications/Spotlight_Vol_15_Issue_1.pdf.

featured image Bendera Papua Nugini. “Kumul” terbang tinggi pada 16 September 2022 melintasi Southern Cross. Foto oleh Spencer Wungin pada Unsplash