Mon Nov 04 17:15:25 UTC 2024: ## Despite RTE Act, Millions of Children Remain Out of School: Report

**Bengaluru, November 4, 2024:** A new report released by the Right to Education Cell and the Council for Social Development highlights the continued challenges in achieving universal education in India, even 14 years after the enactment of the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act (RTE Act) in 2009.

The report, titled “Implementation of the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009: Where do we stand,” reveals that approximately 9.3 lakh children are out of school at the elementary level and 3.2 lakh at the secondary level. Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Gujarat, and Assam have the highest numbers of out-of-school children at the elementary level. The report also notes a higher dropout rate at the upper primary level compared to the primary level.

The report criticizes the lack of adequate infrastructure in many schools, including insufficient school buildings, drinking water, functional toilets, and boundary walls. While over 90% of schools have drinking water facilities and toilets, the functionality remains questionable in some cases. The report also points out that even private schools are not meeting the infrastructure requirements, with 2,469 private schools shutting down between 2015 and 2018 and 13,546 receiving closure notices for failing to comply with RTE norms and standards.

While there has been an overall increase in the number of teachers since the implementation of the RTE Act, the report highlights a significant shortage of qualified teachers, with 15% of teachers in government schools and 30% in private schools still lacking the necessary qualifications. The report also expresses concern over the decline in government spending on education, which currently stands at 0.37% of GDP, a far cry from the recommended 6% of GDP.

The report underscores the need for continued efforts and renewed focus on achieving universal education in India. It emphasizes the importance of addressing infrastructure gaps, improving teacher quality, and increasing government investment in education to ensure that all children have access to quality education.

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