Fragility and Education
Similarly, USAID describes fragility as “the extent to which state-society relations fail to produce outcomes that are considered to be effective and legitimate.” USAID differentiates the fragile states that are vulnerable and that are in crisis. It has defined both terms as:
Vulnerable: Those states are unable or unwilling to adequately assure the provision of security and basic services to significant portions of their populations and where the legitimacy of the government is in question. This includes states that are failing or recovering from crisis.
Crises: Those states where central government does not exert effective control over its own territory or is unable or unwilling to assure the provision of vital services to significant parts of its territory, where legitimacy of the government is weak or nonexistent, and where violent conflict is a reality or a great risk.
While varying definitions of fragility exists, the commonality lies in recognizing fragilityas a fluid and dynamic condition. There are some countries facing chronic and persistent instability and conflict, while others move in and out of instability, which is often concentrated in certain geographic areas or around particular trigger events (e.g. elections in Bangladesh in January 2024). The causes and drivers of fragility in different contexts may vary, however fragile states have common traits such as weak institutions and governance systems; lack of legitimate and credible government; lack of state capacity, and lack of effective and inclusive political processes. In a nutshell, fragile states are unable or unwilling to respond to the citizens’ demand and meet their basic needs.
Fragility in education can manifest in various ways, such as:
- Lack of access to quality education resources and infrastructure
- Instability in educational policies, funding, or governance
- Disruptions caused by natural disasters, conflicts, or socioeconomic factors
- Challenges faced by marginalized or disadvantaged learners, such as those from low-income backgrounds or with special needs
How does fragility affect education?
The effects of fragility in education can be far-reaching and include:
- Reduced access to and participation in education
- Deterioration of educational quality and learning outcomes
- Disruptions in educational continuity and progression
- Increased dropout rates and learning gaps
- Challenges in teacher recruitment, retention, and professional development
- Barriers to educational equity and inclusion
- Negative impacts on individual and societal development
*Picture from World Bank
Why: The causes of fragility in education can include:
- Political instability, conflict, or violence
- Economic challenges, such as poverty, inequality, or resource scarcity
- Natural disasters, climate change, or environmental degradation
- Demographic shifts, such as rapid population growth or migration
- Systemic inequities and discrimination
Where: Fragility in education is often observed in:
- Developing or low-income countries
- Areas affected by conflict, natural disasters, or political upheaval
- Marginalized or underserved communities within a country or region
Fragility in education can occur at any stage of the educational process, from early childhood education to higher education and lifelong learning.
Who: Fragility in education can impact a wide range of stakeholders, including:
- Students and learners, particularly those from disadvantaged or vulnerable backgrounds
- Teachers, administrators, and educational personnel
- Families and communities
- Policymakers and education authorities
How: The effects of fragility in education can be far-reaching and include:
- Reduced access to and participation in education
- Deterioration of educational quality and learning outcomes
- Disruptions in educational continuity and progression
- Increased dropout rates and learning gaps
- Challenges in teacher recruitment, retention, and professional development
- Barriers to educational equity and inclusion
- Negative impacts on individual and societal development
Addressing fragility in education requires a comprehensive and multifaceted approach, involving stakeholders at all levels, from local communities to international organizations. Strategies may include:
- Strengthening educational infrastructure and resilience
- Improving educational policies, governance, and financing
- Providing targeted support and interventions for vulnerable learners
- Fostering community engagement and collaboration
- Investing in teacher training and professional development-
Integrating disaster risk reduction and emergency preparedness into educational planning
By addressing fragility and building resilient educational systems, policymakers and stakeholders can ensure that all learners have access to high-quality, inclusive, and sustainable education, even in the face of challenges and disruptions.
Umesh Dahal
Department of Science and Technology
0 Comments