Enhancing Education Quality in Rural Madagascar
In rural Madagascar, where most primary school teachers are not civil servants but are paid by parents' associations known as "FRAM," educational challenges persist due to various factors including the low status of the teaching profession and the poverty of pupils' parents.
Teachers at Menarano Primary School
In response Feedback Madagascar has implemented several initiatives within the Ranomafana Pedagogical Administration Zone (ZAP) to improve the quality of teaching.
One significant project by Feedback Madagascar is the teacher support programme, which has been active since 2006 across four primary schools: Bevoahazo, Torotosy, Ampitavanana, and Menarano to improve the educational attainment of children around the National Park. Recently, the initiative expanded to include Ranovao Primary School. Currently, Feedback Madagascar provides direct support to 20 teachers from these schools.
The strategies employed within this initiative encompass a multi-faceted approach:
Reduction of Charges for Parents: Measures have been taken to alleviate financial burdens on parents in terms of teacher payments.
Involvement of ZAP Chief: The ZAP chief plays an integral role in overseeing and supporting the project.
Capacity Building for Teachers: Training programs, facilitated by ZAP and/or CISCO, aim to enhance the skills and competencies of teachers.
Improvement of School Environment: Efforts are directed towards creating conducive learning environments within the schools.
Payment of Substitutes: Provision for substitute teachers ensures continuity of education in the event of absences.
Fostering Competitive Spirit: Initiatives are in place to cultivate a sense of competitiveness among teachers, motivating them to excel.
Parental Accountability: Parents' associations are actively engaged in monitoring teacher attendance.
Systematic Teacher Oversight: The ZAP chief conducts regular assessments to ensure the effectiveness and performance of teachers.
Enhancing Teachers' Living Conditions: Steps are taken to improve the living standards of teachers.
Awareness of WASH: Education campaigns are conducted to raise awareness regarding Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) practices.
Activities within the initiative primarily revolve around capacity-building training for teachers, often in collaboration with ZAP or CISCO. Additionally, resources such as school stationery for pupils and books for teachers are distributed to support the educational process.
These concerted efforts signify a commitment to address the educational challenges prevalent in rural Madagascar, with the ultimate goal of enhancing educational attainment and opportunities for children in these communities.