EDUWATCH Urges Targeted Policies to Bridge Education Resource Gaps

 


EDUWATCH Calls for Targeted Policy to Address Education Resource Disparities

Africa Education Watch (EDUWATCH), a leading education policy think tank, has urged the government to adopt a strategic approach in addressing the unequal allocation of educational resources between affluent and underprivileged districts.

This recommendation follows an assessment of progress made in achieving the objectives outlined in the Education Sector Medium-Term Development Plan. 

The findings revealed significant disparities, with wealthier districts receiving a disproportionate share of resources, while poorer districts, which have a greater need, remain underfunded.

Kofi Asare, the Executive Director of EDUWATCH, emphasized the urgency of implementing a more equitable policy to improve educational standards in less privileged areas.

“Inequality in resource distribution is leading to uneven educational outcomes, particularly in deprived regions where policy targets are not being met. 

To bridge this gap, the next medium-term framework (2026-2029) must prioritize targeted interventions and funding mechanisms," he stated.

He further explained that national budgets should move beyond broad allocations and adopt a needs-based approach.

 
“Instead of merely committing a lump sum for school infrastructure, we must deliberately allocate funds to address specific deficits—such as providing textbooks to underserved schools. 

A well-structured and targeted approach is essential to reducing the gap between endowed and deprived districts rather than just focusing on national targets, many of which have already been exceeded.”

Key Challenges Identified

The report also highlighted critical shortcomings in the education sector, including:

  • Limited ICT integration due to the absence of a clear policy on technology provision in basic schools.
  • Lack of electricity access in many underserved communities.
  • Inadequate sanitation facilities, with many schools lacking proper toilets.
  • Unequal school feeding program distribution, where well-resourced districts benefit more than deprived ones, despite the latter's greater need.

On the issue of school feeding, Mr. Asare called for a comprehensive review of the policy to ensure a more targeted approach.

“The school feeding program needs an extensive reassessment, beyond just governance concerns. 

The current implementation does not effectively prioritize the most vulnerable children based on poverty indicators. 

If we realign these interventions correctly, we can significantly improve student retention and completion rates,” he stated.

EDUWATCH’s recommendations highlight the need for policy adjustments that go beyond general resource allocation, ensuring that deprived districts receive the necessary support to improve educational outcomes and bridge long-standing disparities.

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