ASER 2023 report : ASER is the country’s oldest survey of its kind, and it is well-known for the breadth of insights it provides on elementary-level foundational learning.
ASER 2023 report : Introduction
The Annual Status of Education Report (ASER) is set to unveil its 2023 findings on January 17, marking the second year since the resurgence of this crucial national survey. Spearheaded by the Pratham Foundation, ASER has been a pioneering initiative in assessing foundational learning at the elementary level in India. With a legacy of being the oldest survey of its kind in the country, ASER is renowned for providing comprehensive insights into the state of education.
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Evolution in the face of challenges
The backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic prompted a significant shift in the methodology of the ASER survey conducted by the Pratham Foundation. In response to the challenges posed by the global health crisis, ASER transitioned to a phone-based survey, focusing on understanding digital inequality and monitoring enrollment levels in schools. However, in 2022, Pratham reverted to its traditional field survey approach, sending surveyors to various cities across the country. This shift allowed for face-to-face interactions with children and teachers in rural India, providing a more nuanced understanding of the state of learning.
Key insights from ASER 2022
In the previous year’s report, ASER surveyed around 7 lakh candidates from 19,060 schools in 616 districts, assessing the learning outcomes of school children post-pandemic. Notably, the 2022 report revealed a remarkable increase in school enrollment, with 98.4% of students aged 6-14 now attending schools. This figure marked a significant rise from 96.6% in 2010, 96.7% in 2014, and 97.2% in 2018. Of particular note was the 7.3 percentage point increase in government school enrollment between 2018 and 2022.
Regional disparities
The ASER 2022 report not only unveiled national trends but also meticulously highlighted regional variations in government school enrollment, spotlighting Manipur’s unique circumstances. The survey delved deep into the heart of Manipur, covering nine districts, 262 villages, and 4,859 households. This granular approach provided critical insights into the challenges faced by this northeastern state, contributing to a nuanced understanding of the factors influencing educational participation.
The revelation of Manipur having the lowest government school enrollment percentage among northeastern states is not just a statistic; it serves as a call to action for targeted interventions and policy adjustments. By shining a spotlight on such regional intricacies, the ASER report fosters a more comprehensive dialogue on how to address disparities and uplift educational standards across diverse landscapes.
Positive trends amidst adversity
Despite the prolonged school closures during the pandemic, the 2022 report highlighted a positive trend — the percentage of children currently not enrolled in schools dropped to 2% or below for the first time. This noteworthy achievement reflects the collective efforts and resilience of the education system, communities, and policymakers in ensuring continued access to learning opportunities. Even amidst the formidable challenges posed by the pandemic, the downward trajectory in the proportion of children not attending school persisted, showcasing the unwavering commitment to inclusive education. The data from 2018 to 2022 underscores the system’s adaptability and capacity to navigate disruptions, portraying a narrative of sustained progress in addressing barriers to education and fostering a more equitable learning environment for all.
Conclusion
As ASER prepares to release its 2023 report, the anticipation is palpable. The findings are expected to provide valuable insights into the evolving landscape of foundational learning in India, shedding light on the impact of recent educational reforms and the resilience demonstrated by the education system in the face of unprecedented challenges. The ASER report serves not only as a barometer for educational progress but also as a compass guiding policymakers and educators toward more informed and effective strategies for the future.
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