Bangladesh has made great strides toward increasing its literacy rate since gaining independence in 1971, when it was only 29.2%. The current percentage is approximately 75.6%. However, there are challenges to reaching universal literacy, such as rural gaps, economic inequality, and brain drain.
Accomplishments in Reading
The public and commercial sectors have made significant contributions to the progress of literacy. Greater access to education, especially in rural regions, has been made possible by the 2003 launch of the Primary Education Development Program (PEDP). Many factors, such as improved textbook subsidies, focused programming, and improved infrastructure, have been linked to higher enrollment rates.
Families became encouraged to send their children to school as financial constraints are being addressed by the Food for Education and Stipends for Girls initiatives, which have helped to close the gender gap in education by encouraging families. NGOs such as BRAC provide non-formal education to impoverished communities to assist a large number of adults and children who previously had no access to formal education. And it has already made noteworthy contributions. Our current state of education is more inclusive and accessible because of the combination of governmental and non-governmental initiatives.
Obstacles on the Path to Literacy
Yes, there is success, but there are still some challenges.
Rural Inequalities
The disparity in educational systems between urban and rural areas is a major obstacle. Better infrastructure, more qualified teachers, and easier access to resources are advantages enjoyed by urban areas like Dhaka and Chittagong, while these advantages are sometimes absent from rural areas. Lower literacy rates are caused by overcrowding in classes, a lack of teachers, and subpar infrastructure in rural schools. High dropout rates are caused by the fact that many rural families prioritize employment more than schooling.
Financial Obstacles
In our country, property is still a fatal issue. Many kids are forced to drop out of school to work and support their families, especially in rural areas. Laws for child labor are just existing in the books not in force. Access to education is further restricted by the indirect costs, including uniforms, supplies, and transportation, which can be expensive for low-income households. The fact that many adults cannot afford to take time off work to attend classes is another obstacle for adult literacy programs, feeding the cycle of poverty and illiteracy in impoverished neighborhoods.
Drain of Brains
Another significant problem is brain drain. Many highly qualified people, especially educators, travel overseas in search of better prospects. The local talent pool is diminished by this exodus, especially in rural areas where there is a greater need for educated educators. Because of this, a large number of rural schools employ underqualified or inexperienced instructors, which widens the educational quality gap between rural and urban areas. Additionally, brain drain stunts advancement in education and thought. The nation’s efforts to increase literacy are further hampered by the departure of experts who could help to enhance the educational system.
Goals for the Future: Overcoming Obstacles
To achieve universal literacy by 2030, Bangladesh needs to implement targeted changes to address these issues if it is to achieve.
Bridging the Urban-Rural Divide
It’s essential to fund education in rural areas. More rural school construction is required, as is an upgrade of the current infrastructure. It is possible to guarantee that all students, regardless of where they live, receive high-quality education by supporting and educating rural teachers through programs. Programs for distant and digital learning may also offer an alternate means of reaching students who live in far-off places.
Resolving Financial Obstacles
Reducing financial barriers will be aided by increasing scholarships for deserving students and growing financial aid initiatives like Food for Education. Programs for vocational training can also provide a means for students to further their education while also making a financial contribution to their families.
Minimizing Cognitive Drain
Improving professional working conditions locally is necessary to combat brain drain. Talented people may be encouraged to stay in Bangladesh via enticing job prospects in the education industry and competitive remuneration. The nation’s long-term intellectual and educational development can be facilitated, and skilled people can be retained by funding research and promoting higher education possibilities.
In summary, Bangladesh’s march toward literacy has seen some impressive advancements, but obstacles including brain drain, economic impediments, and rural inequities continue to impede progress. By addressing these problems and implementing strategic reforms, the country can get closer to its 2030 goal of universal literacy. While the goal is lofty, a literate Bangladesh is achievable with perseverance and creative thinking.
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Writer
Jannatul Naim Samia
Intern at Content Writing Department
YSSE