Beyond Basics: Youth in Rural India Struggle with Basic Education, ASER 2023 Report Reveals

New Delhi- The youth of the country are advancing with technology, but lagging behind in fundamental abilities, as revealed in the Annual Status of Education Report (ASER 2023 - Beyond Basics) released by the ASER Center Pratham Education Foundation on Wednesday. According to the report, 80% of youth aged 14 to 18 are actively engaged in entertainment through smartphones. However, 25% of youth are unable to comprehend basic content at the level of a class 2 textbook in regional languages.

The educational scenario is further highlighted by the fact that 57.3% of youth are able to read sentences in English, but only three-fourths of them can understand the meaning. The survey, conducted by the organization, covered 34,745 youths in the rural areas of 28 districts across 26 states, including Rajasthan. A rural district was surveyed in each state, with two districts in Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. Bhilwara in Rajasthan was also included in the survey.

The findings of the report sheds light on the activities and educational pursuits of individuals aged 14 to 18, addressing whether some have opted for alternative work over continued education.

The household survey undertaken by Pratham Education Foundation, reveals a great deal of information about the age group. Regarding the current enrolment status of youth aged 14 to 18, the data indicates that 53% are still attending school, with their highest-grade being 10th or below, while 28% are in either 11th or 12th grade, and 7% are pursuing college education. Notably, 13% of youth in this age group are presently not enrolled in any educational institution. At the age of 14, a significant 72% of students are enrolled in government institutions, whereas at the age of 18, this figure slightly decreases to about 44%.

In terms of those currently not enrolled, the data shows that at age 14, the percentage of youth not enrolled is relatively low at 3.9%, with minimal differences between boys and girls. However, at age 18, the percentage of youth not enrolled significantly rises to 32.6%, with 33.4% of females and 31.6% of males not enrolled in any educational institution.

But in terms of vocational training, only a modest 5.6% of youth within the age range of 14 to 18 are currently engaged in vocational courses. It is noteworthy that the majority of those participating in such courses are enrolled in brief programs lasting six months or less.

When it comes to work outside the home, a substantial 33.7% of youth aged 14 to 18 have been employed for more than 15 days in the last month, excluding household work. Among those attending college or school, the percentage of individuals working varies, ranging from 29% to 37%, depending on age and grade. In contrast, among those not currently enrolled in any educational institution, a significant 55% are engaged in some form of work.

Regarding work within the home, daily household chores are a common responsibility. The data reveals that a higher percentage of females, approximately 86%, reported being involved in domestic work compared to males, where the corresponding figure is 66%.

The ASER 2023 household survey covered 1,664 villages and 30,074 households in rural districts, surveying 34,745 youth aged 14-18. Utilizing a random sample of 60 villages per district, the survey was limited to 1-2 districts per state. This study builds on ASER 2017's examination of the age group 14-18, offering comprehensive insights into the educational landscape and youth dynamics in rural areas.

About the Report and the Need for the Specificity of 14-18 Age Group:

Since 2005, Pratham Education Foundation has been conducting the Annual Status of Education Report (ASER), a comprehensive citizen-led household survey. The primary goal of ASER is to assess the enrolment and learning status of rural Indian children. Each year, the survey addresses various aspects of children's education and academic progress.

India possesses the largest youth population globally, emphasizing the need to provide these young individuals with essential skills and opportunities to shape a better future for themselves, their families, and the nation. The National Youth Policy 2021 outlines a ten-year vision for youth development, aiming to "unleash the potential of the youth to propel India forward" by driving advancements in education, employment, entrepreneurship, youth leadership, health, fitness, and social justice.

The Right to Education Act (RTE) guarantees free and compulsory education for children up to the age of 14, typically concluding with the completion of the eighth grade. Understanding the paths children take after completing primary education, especially as they enter adulthood at 18, is crucial. Their preparedness to assume adult responsibilities plays a pivotal role in determining their personal, social, and professional success in the future. This preparedness is analysed by the report.

Also Read-