Educational crisis of Rohingya refugee children in Bangladesh: Access, obstacles, and prospects to formal and non-formal education

Abstract

PurposeThe article discusses the contemporary educational crisis of Rohingya children in Bangladesh. It aims to identify the challenges of formal and non-formal education faced by Rohingya children and their prospects. In this scholarship, the author attempts to answer the questions-what are the current formal and non-formal educational services in the Rohingya refugee camps and how and to what extent do the existing educational services intensify the other crisis in their lives, and what are the prospects for them going forwards. Methodology: This study is primarily based on secondary sources of data. It focuses on the available educational services and key obstacles that affect Rohingya children's formal and non-formal educational opportunities in Bangladesh and their prospects in Myanmar. FindingsThe study found the absence of formal and non-formal education for Rohingya children in refugee camps has a significant impact on their ability to become an active member of society. Although refugee children and their parents express a willingness to formal education under the Myanmar curriculum, limited educational services and various structural and legal barriers hinder their progress. Finally, the study explores the prospects of formal and non-formal education for Rohingya children in Bangladesh and concludes with recommendations to improve their educational opportunities. LimitationThe study results can differ in other contexts and countries hosting refugees. Practical implicationsFindings of the study may be helpful for policymakers and practitioners.