Early Grade Reading Programme an Initiative of Community

Universalization of Elementary Education is the prime focus of Government of Maharashtra. Government of India’s Educational Development Index shows Maharashtra has made significant progress in access and infrastructure facilities in the recent years. A good progress in bridging equity gap. Access and Availability of school is adequately available in the state. 98%of the children are enrolled in the schools.

Information available with various sources of the School Education Department of Government of Maharashtra indicating that School Development Plan (SDP) data for the year 2012 reflects2.23 lakh children are out of school. We analyzed data from District Information System of Education (DISE) from the year 2006-07 to 2012-13 and found that the enrollment in Government and Private Aided Schools at primary level has declined by 12% (11 lakhs). Changing Trends of enrollment during the year 2006-07 to 2012-13 is clearly indicating shift of 7% enrollment from Government and Local Body Schools to Private Schools and 10% Shift of Class-I enrollment from Marathi medium to English medium.

Annual Status of Education Report (ASER) is largest survey to assess learning level in Rural India. Pratham is a NGO who have released ASER report for 2012. Some of key findings of the report are -although % of out-of-school children is lower than the national average but it increased over the period. Learning levels declined during 2011 and 2012. Focus is required on Maths. Student and teacher attendance rate is better than the national average. Toilet is available is schools but usability of toilet is an issue. In Maharashtra only 8% children of class-IV can read easy sentences, 12% children of class-IV can read easy sentences 4% children of class-IV can not read even letters.