Countries all over the world have been advocating for education. However, in developing countries, it is easier said than done. Students are barely making it to college, with many of them dropping out in high school. The number of those who do not get to finish primary school is alarming. There is also a lack of support not only from the government, non-government organizations, and the people.
Many students thus end up being cut off from an education that could help them improve their quality of life in the future. Quality education is essential not only on a personal level but also for the country’s development. Investing in higher learning education will ensure that students get the knowledge and skills they can use to contribute to the development of the country.
4 Reasons Why Education Is Crucial in Developing Countries
- Boosts the economy
Education is a primary pillar of a country’s economy. When a government invests in its education, it will ultimately reflect in the stability of its economy. An educated society broadens the career opportunities of its people. Using the skills they have acquired, individuals can go into the world and get well-paying jobs, thus influencing the economy nationwide.
- Eradicates hunger
Many developing countries struggle with feeding their people. With education, farmers can learn the latest agricultural advancements. They can achieve financial security without spending a lot financially and physically. It also prevents malnutrition in families, more so, children because they are educated about nutrition.
- Promotes health awareness
Lack of knowledge in various health aspects has made many developing countries high-risk areas for health problems. Diseases like HIV/AIDS, high blood pressure, diabetes are deadly harmful but manageable. When people are equipped with education, they become more aware of their healthy lifestyle. Knowledge will help curb many health risks, for instance, the spread of HIV/AIDS.
- Promotes gender equality
The perception that boys are better than girls is still in many developing countries. Gender is a hindrance for many young women, where many opportunities pass them. Promoting education in these countries will allow students, both girls and boys get the exposure their societies need. Education will eradicate the ignorance that the female gender is not as worse as the male.
Barriers That Prevent the Development of Education
Effective education has a significant impact on the country’s economy and also the prospects of future generations. Therefore, it is vital for policymakers to take measures to increase access to education throughout the developing countries. Although the outcomes of attaining good education are undeniable, many barriers stand between children and school.
- During budgeting and resource allocation, many countries assign a few resources to education. Without enough support and funding, schools are unable to buy enough books and studying materials. Students even lack ‘do my homework‘ helpers to assist them with their assignments. Getting foreign aid could make a lot of difference in the education sector.
- Student learning is unachievable when there are not enough teachers. When student numbers in a class are overwhelming, it interferes with proper education. Schools need to recruit enough teachers proportion to their learners’ capacity.
- Overlooking of students with special needs is a big problem in education. Disability should never be a reason that one is unable to access education. However, that is not the reality in many developing countries. Students with disabilities are discriminated against, or the leaning facilities lack teaching methods inclusive of their needs.
- Home to school distance is a challenge for many countries. At times, the distance students have to walk to get to school is great, especially for children and those with disabilities. The lack of safety during these long journeys make their parents reluctant to let them go to school, which interferes with their education.
Ways of Improving Education in Poor Countries
Education is expensive when you count the resources, human resources and expenses, but that does not overshadow its relevance. Governments need to make significant strides in making education a priority in their countries. Ensuring enough funding is allocated to the education sector should help it thrive. Resources like stationery and uniform should be provided to students at their schools. Also, expenses like tuition and exam fees need to be done away by giving relief to parents who cannot afford education.
Ultimately, the effort of educating children assures better lives in the future. By helping themselves and their families, it improves their societies. Without education, many facets of the community are at a stall. Therefore, effort should be made to ensure students worldwide do not miss out on education,