Bangladesh

PCTFI baseline study explored the existing barriers and opportunities for increased girls` participation, leadership and continuation of girls` education. It also investigated the existing and possible roles and responsibilities of different stakeholders who are important to improve the situation. Baseline data has been categorized under 27 key queries which have been summarized here into three parts; barriers and opportunities of girls` participation, underneath reasons behind not transforming into secondary education, an exploration of social and gender norms among the parents, SMCs, teachers and boys. It has also examined the attendance, dropout, promotion and progression rate of the students to explore the present scenario of girls` education both in primary education and transition to secondary level. According the PCTFI baseline study most of the girl students informed that they do not have adequate opportunities to participate in the school activities. Baseline data also shows very low participation of the girls in the extracurricular activities in school and lack of social environment for girls. Lack of encouraging environment and poor leadership capacity are pushing back the girls’ from school. Data shows the average score regarding participation and leadership is 1.7 out of 4 which depicts low participation and leadership of the girl students. In addition, a conducive environment at home to study is one of the hindrances that the study revealed. Distance from home and shortage of secondary school in the community is another significant barrier for the continuation of girl education. During the baseline study (2015) most of the parents and SMC members informed that while primary school is available almost in every village, secondary school is far from home. It has been also noted that the unsafe way to school aggravated by long distance from home thus parents are not interested to send their daughters to the secondary school. Baseline data also shows high score among boys and girls including parents regarding aspiration for higher study however, school data shows low attendance of both boys and girls especially of the fourth and fifth graders. Having 22.33 school days girls and boys attended an average of 14 and 11 days respectively which indicates lack of enthusiasm of the parents regarding their children`s education. On the other hands, Government’s limitation in attracting good teaching staffs, there is an evident inadequacy in the teaching capacities in general as well as specific to incorporating gender parity in teaching methods. Social norms continue to socialize teachers who are yet to believe in the concept of girls’ emancipation and leadership. Most of the girls do not enjoy fearless environment and usually hesitate to speak out in front of teacher. Teacher involved girl students in the gender stereotype activities which indicated poor understanding of gender parity among teachers. [31 pages] Read More...