Amarpurkashi project in India: research into rural education
many village children are missing out on a good education
Research into the state of government primary education in the rural area around Amarpurkashi
Following concern about the drop-out rate in government primary schools and the apparent lack of commitment of government teachers in rural areas, the project appealed to IVCS for funds to carry out Action Research to see just what the true situation was.
Ten government primary schools were visited without prior notice or knowledge. Observations were made from village houses conveniently situated near the schools. Neither students nor staff were aware of this. Observation began one hour before the schools were due to open and teachers’ and students’ movements were recorded every five minutes up to the close of the school day.
The results unfortunately confirmed our worst fears. None of the schools opened at the officially specified time or remained open for the whole of the school day. 20% of teachers and 25% assistant teachers were absent for the whole day. Those staff that were present moved in and out of the school throughout the day without asking permission or informing anyone. Only two of the ten schools held an assembly. Pupil-teacher contact was just 45%. Only 20% of the pupils on roll actually attended but 90% of those arrived before any of the teachers. The free midday meal did not attract any more pupils.
What lessons are the children who attend government primary schools in rural areas learning? They see that the teachers are always late, often absent, come and go without notice, only teach for 50% of the time and don’t bother with assemblies. This is the education they are receiving.
These results have further inspired us to offer more scholarships to children at our own Gramodaya Primary School so that all villagers have the opportunity for a good education.
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