Rebecca Lewis, Partner and Co-CEO
Sustainable economic growth is intricately tied to investment in human capital. As the global economy evolves, continuous learning and adaptability are essential, underscoring the critical need for ongoing education and training. After the profound disruptions of the Covid-19 pandemic, the 2024 Annual Status of Education Report (ASER) brings a wave of optimism for India’s education sector. The report reveals a heartening rebound in pre-primary enrolment, particularly among 5-year-old children, with enrolment soaring from 58% in 2018 to an impressive 71% in 2024. This is a powerful sign of resilience and hope, embraced by educators and families alike.
But the good news doesn’t stop there. ASER also highlights that nearly all children aged 6-14—an astounding 98%—are now in school, holding steady since 2018. In a monumental step toward educational equality, the gender gap for adolescents aged 15-16 has dramatically narrowed to just 0.4%, signaling real progress in bridging gaps and promoting inclusivity.
Yet, despite these positive trends in enrolment, the report underscores critical challenges in learning outcomes across the country. While some pandemic-induced learning setbacks have been reversed, proficiency levels still paint a concerning picture. Fewer than one-third of Standard V students can perform basic division, and in some states, basic reading and math proficiency rates are as low as 30% and 15%, respectively.
A crucial focus of the report is the need for further improvement in high school enrolment and early childhood education—two pillars that have been vital for countries making successful transitions from middle-income to higher-income economies. Technology could hold the key to overcoming some of these hurdles, as nearly 90% of rural adolescents now have access to smartphones. However, the underutilization of these devices for educational purposes signals an untapped potential for innovation and progress.
The ASER 2024 paints a picture of India’s education system that is both hopeful and complex. While enrolment rates rise and the gender gap closes, the journey toward quality education for all is far from complete. The next step is clear: leveraging technology and innovative approaches to not just get children into school, but to truly elevate their learning experiences. This will ensure a brighter, more promising future for India’s youth.
As we ride the wave of educational progress, the message is urgent and clear: let’s ensure that rising enrolment numbers translate into richer, more effective learning experiences, so every child in India can reach their full potential and thrive.
