Global learning poverty in LMICs rises by 70%

The latest report by the World Bank has painted a grim picture of the education crisis in low and middle-income countries, particularly in Africa, where learning poverty has seen a staggering increase of 70%. The report highlights the urgent need for policymakers to address this crisis and implement effective interventions to improve educational outcomes on the continent. Obiageli Ezekwesili, the CEO of Human Capital Africa and former Nigerian Minister of Education, shared her insights on the key findings of the report and the necessary steps to combat this growing challenge. The World Bank report reveals alarming statistics, indicating that 64% of 10-year-olds worldwide are struggling to attain basic literacy skills, with the figure rising to 70% in low and middle-income countries. In Africa, a concerning 89% of children are unable to read with comprehension, emphasizing the critical need for immediate action to strengthen foundational literacy and numeracy. Ezekwesili emphasized the indispensable role of these fundamental skills in shaping future educational achievements and overall human capital development. Ezekwesili stressed that evidence-based policymaking is vital in addressing the educational crisis, emphasizing the importance of political leadership in prioritizing interventions that target the root causes of learning poverty. She highlighted the crucial role of national assessment systems to track students' progress and provide necessary support and remediation measures. Additionally, investing in teacher training and classroom resources is essential to ensure effective instruction that fosters early grade reading and mathematics skills. The repercussions of failing to address learning poverty are far-reaching, impacting not only educational outcomes but also health, economic prospects, and the perpetuation of generational poverty. Ezekwesili underscored the link between foundational literacy and long-term success, citing examples from countries like Singapore, South Korea, and China, where strong educational foundations have been instrumental in driving economic growth and prosperity. As policymakers, development finance institutions, and other stakeholders collaborate to tackle this pressing issue, urgent measures must be implemented to reverse the alarming trends in learning poverty. By prioritizing early grade literacy and numeracy, providing support for teachers, and establishing robust assessment systems, African countries can pave the way for a brighter future for their youth and break the cycle of poverty that hampers sustainable development. In conclusion, Ezekwesili highlighted the interconnected nature of education, health, and economic well-being, emphasizing the critical role of foundational learning in shaping a prosperous future for the continent. The time for action is now, and concerted efforts from all sectors of society are essential in ensuring that every child in Africa has access to quality education and the opportunity to thrive.