Kalvimalar

The recently released ASER Annual Education Status Report for Adolescents in India offers a comprehensive overview of the educational landscape, highlighting key findings and trends. 

The study, encompassing 34,745 individuals aged between 14 and 18, spanned 28 districts across 26 states.

One noteworthy revelation from the report is that a significant 86.8 percent of adolescents in the specified age group are enrolled in educational institutions. Within this category, a breakdown reveals that 3.9 percent of 14-year-olds and 32.6 percent of 18-year-olds are not currently enrolled in any educational program.

Academic Preferences in Higher Grades

In the realm of higher education, the report delves into the academic preferences of those in class 11 or above. The findings indicate a prevalent interest in arts-based courses, with 55.7 percent of students opting for this stream. STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) courses attract 31.7 percent, while business courses are pursued by 9.4 percent. Notably, 36.3 percent of males enroll in STEM courses, contrasting with 28.1 percent of females.

Vocational Training Uptake

The report sheds light on vocational training, revealing that only 5.6 percent of surveyed youths chose vocational training or alternative courses. Among them, 16.2 percent receive vocational training at the college level, typically engaging in short-term courses lasting six months or less.

Challenges in Basic Skills

A concerning aspect brought to the forefront by the ASER report is the proficiency levels in basic skills among 14- to 18-year-olds. Approximately 25 percent struggle to read subjects at a grade 2 level fluently in their native language. Over 50 percent face difficulties dividing 3-digit numbers by single-digit numbers, with only 43.3 percent achieving accurate calculations�skills typically expected by the 3rd or 4th grade.

English Proficiency

English proficiency emerges as a distinctive aspect, with 57.3 percent capable of reading sentences in English. However, only 73.5 percent of these individuals can provide the correct meaning for the sentences.

Gender Disparities

An intriguing gender disparity is observed in the report. While 70.9 percent of males can read a second-grade text in their language, females exhibit a slightly higher proficiency at 76 percent. In contrast, males outperform females in Arithmetic and English reading skills.

The ASER - 2023 Report serves as a valuable tool for policymakers and educators, shedding light on the multifaceted landscape of adolescent education in India.