Targeting the rural poor: the role of education and training

by Lavinia Gasperini
and Charles Maguire
Extension, Education and Communication Service
FAO Research, Extension and Training Division

This paper was presented at the "International Working Group on Education" held in Lisbon, Portugal, 19-21 November 2001

This paper argues that education is key to poverty reduction strategies and advocates for renewed support as the international community commits itself to reducing the incidence of poverty world-wide. Seventy per cent of the poor are to be found in rural areas where illiteracy and low school achievement are common. The paper notes that emphasis is now being placed on rural development that encompasses all those who live in the rural “space”. The provison of education for the many target groups in this space is a complex challenge. After a description of the close linkage between education, poverty reduction and food security, the paper calls on the international community to participate in debate and to agree on a common view and approach to education for sustainable rural development, encourages dialogue between stakeholders, and supports countries in analysing their education approaches for rural development and funding interventions to support change.

Click here to go to the full article