Among the many intangibles in the field of education is cost-benefit equation pertaining to the impact of public spending on primary education. We are generally unaware of the co-relation between money spent on schools and the quality of learning our students get. Budgeting for public schooling is need-based, rather than result-oriented.

Pratham, a grassroots initiative in education, is carrying out in Mysore an assessment of the quality of learning in schools. Volunteers have been visiting schools (since Nov.11, 2005) interviewing students in the 6-14 age-group and putting them through a simple test in basic reading, writing and simple arithmetic. The exercise, to continue till Dec.5, is part of a nationwide survey, and its findings would figure in an education status report – 2005.

Managing trustee of Pratham, Mysore, Mr Ashvini Ranjan, observed that such assessment would be done annually till 2010 – the target date for universal elementary education campaign. The partners in this endeavour in Karnataka include Akshara Foundation, Azim Premji Foundation, Indian Literacy Project, Campaign Against Child Labour and Initiatives for Development Foundation.

(Source: Deccan Herald, Nov.26, 2005)

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