Education is a fundamental right, yet access to it varies significantly between countries. A good example is Kenya and Sudan, two East African nations with starkly different education realities. So, why does access to education in Kenya and Sudan differ? The answer lies in a mix of political, economic, cultural, and infrastructural factors.
1. Political Stability and Conflict
- Kenya has enjoyed relative political stability, allowing consistent education policy implementation and infrastructure development.
- Sudan, on the other hand, has faced decades of civil war, political unrest, and displacement, severely disrupting schooling.
War zones and refugee crises in Sudan make it harder for children to access education consistently.
2. Government Investment in Education
- Kenya allocates a significant portion of its national budget to education. Public schooling is more widespread, and the introduction of free primary education in 2003 was a game-changer.
- Sudan invests less in education relative to its GDP, and many schools lack proper facilities or teaching staff, especially in rural areas.
3. Cultural and Gender Norms
- In some Sudanese regions, traditional beliefs and gender roles still discourage girls from attending school.
- Kenya has made major strides in gender parity in education, with policies promoting girls’ enrollment and retention.
4. Infrastructure and Accessibility
- Kenya’s better road networks and rural school distribution help more children attend school.
- In Sudan, conflict-affected and remote areas often lack schools entirely.
5. International Aid and NGO Support
- Kenya receives considerable support from international organizations to boost education access.
- Sudan, due to its unstable political environment, sees reduced engagement from global education programs.
Conclusion
The differences in access to education between Kenya and Sudan highlight how deeply education is tied to political will, peace, funding, and societal norms. While Kenya still faces challenges, its progress contrasts with Sudan’s ongoing struggles. Bridging this gap requires global support, peace-building, and inclusive policies focused on every child’s right to learn.
