specific element of the right to development. 121 Education enables the full development of the
human personality and sense of dignity.122
From this perspective, RTE in Bangladesh can be said to be realised when available education
scheme operates towards human development. In this sense, it requires much speculation to
determine whether the education in Bangladesh (focusing on quantitative success) is efficacious in
providing with a qualitative education because RTE implies the right to quality education, which is
available, accessible, acceptable and adaptable to the needs of learners.123 It is undeniable
In drawing conclusions, we can deduce that the RTE in Bangladesh is being realised in a way
where effective education is not achieved. On the basis of the basic learning needs, RTE as
exercised in Bangladesh is seriously lacking:
•
literacy, oral expression, numeracy, and problem solving:
Literacy has been defined from various perspectives, the most popular one being the ability to read
and write one’s name.124 In 2003, UNESCO proposed a definition of literacy:
Literacy is the ability to identify, understand, interpret, create, communicate and compute using
printed and written materials associated with varying contexts. Literacy involves a continuum of
learning in enabling individuals to achieve his or her goals, develop his or her knowledge and
potentials, and participate fully in the community and wider society.125
The Literacy Assessment Survey 2008 (LAS) gave a comprehensive definition of literacy. In
surveying the literacy status of the population, LAS categorised 4 levels of literacy. 126 The rate
decreased with every level of increasing the determining factors. Currently in Bangladesh the rate is
Brill (n13)
121
122
ibid
123
Coomans (n 115)
124
Index Mundi, ‘Bangladesh Literacy Factbook (2011),< http://www.indexmundi.com/bangladesh/literacy.html>
accessed 29 May 2014
Bangladesh bureau of Statistics, Survey on Literacy Rate (2008)
Non-literate: Lack of ability to recognize and write alphabets, words, and numbers; Semi-literate: Ability to
recognize and write some simple words, to count objects, and numbers at a very basic level; Literate at the initial level,
Ability to read and write sentences, possessing skills of four basic rules of arithmetic and limited use of literacy skills;
Literate at the advance-level: Ability to read and write fluently, competency in four arithmetic rules, ability to use the
skills in everyday life
125
126
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