Equitable System Research Articles

Evaluation of inclusive education in Indonesia: Elementary school teachers' perspective

This quasi-qualitative study explored the concerns, barriers, and impacts of implementing Inclusive Education (IE) in elementary schools in Sumatra and Java, Indonesia. Despite the Indonesian government's mandate to implement IE through Ministry of Education Act No. 70 of 2009, various challenges hinder its effective implementation. A survey and semi-structured interviews were conducted with 25 elementary school teachers to gain insight into their experiences and perceptions of IE. The findings suggest that teachers often lack confidence in employing inclusive strategies because of limited knowledge and large class sizes, highlighting the need for ongoing professional development. Additionally, while there is evidence of positive attitudes towards special educational needs (SEN) students among peers and parents, teachers may not fully embrace IE. This study aims to provide a thorough assessment of IE strategies employed in Indonesian elementary schools by analyzing key factors and offering recommendations to enhance the effectiveness of IE for both students and teachers. These findings will inform policymakers, educators, and stakeholders about the current state of IE and the necessary steps to improve it, ultimately contributing to the development of a more inclusive and equitable education system in Indonesia.

Supporting equitable and anti-racist practices in early childhood programs: a framework for starting differently

Research has found that as early as preschool, children from diverse backgrounds are more at risk than their peers to experience bias and racism from teachers and negative behavioral outcomes. Given these negative early childhood school experiences can create greater risk for children and more stress for their families, it is important that research is utilized to change such experiences and support more positive development outcomes for young children. The purpose of this article is to prevent an approach to organize and participate in school differently. Our approach involves developing equitable systems that supports early childhood centers to develop equitable systems by building upon the foundational principles of anti-racism, equity, and barrier prevention rather than seeking to intervene upon inequitable systems through professional development and attempting to remove barriers that have already caused harm as is with traditional approaches.

Development and validation of a set of wheelchair finite element models in frontal, side, and rear impact conditions

Objective The objective of this study was to develop and validate finite element (FE) models of commercial manual and power wheelchairs, as well as related test fixtures and tiedown hardware, to provide tools for designing integrated wheelchair seating stations for automated and other vehicles. Methods The manual wheelchair model is based on a Ki Mobility Catalyst 5, and the power wheelchair is based on a Quantum Rehab Q6 Edge 2.0 with Synergy Seating. A 3D Sense scanner was used to capture wheelchair geometry. Wheelchairs were disassembled into components to collect masses and additional dimensions. These geometric data were used to construct computer-aided design (CAD) models of each product. Additional fixture models were generated from available drawings for the surrogate wheelchair base (SWCB), surrogate wheelchair 4-point strap tiedowns, traditional docking hardware, and hardware meeting Universal Docking Interface Geometry (UDIG). Models were constructed in LS-DYNA. For each wheelchair, between 1 and 3 dynamic sled tests in front, lateral, and rear directions were conducted for a total of 13 tests with varying wheelchair securement methods to obtain validation data. Frontal and rear impact tests used a Hybrid III midsized male, whereas the side impact tests used the ES-2re. Validation sled pulses were nominally 20 g–48 km/h for frontal tests, 10 g–22 km/h for lateral tests, and 14 g–30 km/h for rear impact tests. CORrelation and Analysis (CORA) scores were calculated for head and chest resultant accelerations. Results Validation results include comparison of component masses, overall wheelchair and anthropomorphic test device (ATD) kinematics, ATD head and chest signals, and calculation of CORA scores for head and chest resultant accelerations. For the 2 wheelchairs and SWCB, total model mass was within 1% to 4% of physical mass. Across the 13 test conditions, head acceleration CORA scores ranged from 0.71 to 0.92 in 8 conditions and from 0.52 to 0.67 in 5 conditions. For chest acceleration, CORA scores ranged from 0.73 to 0.96 in 8 conditions and from 0.51 to 0.67 in 5 conditions. In addition, residual deformation was similar between test and model in conditions where it occurred. Conclusions These publicly available tools will allow vehicle safety engineers to design equitable occupant protection systems for occupants who travel while seated in their wheelchairs. They will also be the baseline for ongoing research to develop parametric wheelchair models for additional occupant sizes.

The Role of Food Science in Combating Obesity and Related Metabolic Disorders

Obesity and related metabolic disorders have emerged as major global health challenges, affecting millions of individuals worldwide. The prevalence of these conditions has reached epidemic proportions, leading to increased morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. Food science plays a crucial role in addressing this complex issue by developing innovative strategies and interventions to promote healthier eating habits and prevent the development of obesity and its associated comorbidities. This comprehensive review explores the multifaceted role of food science in combating obesity and related metabolic disorders, focusing on key areas such as food formulation, processing, preservation, and fortification. We discuss the development of functional foods and ingredients that target specific metabolic pathways, as well as the application of novel technologies to enhance the nutritional quality and sensory appeal of food products. Additionally, we highlight the importance of consumer education and behavior change strategies in promoting healthy food choices and portion control. The review also examines the potential of personalized nutrition approaches, which leverage advances in nutrigenomics and metabolomics to tailor dietary interventions based on individual genetic and metabolic profiles. Furthermore, we explore the role of food science in developing sustainable and equitable food systems that ensure access to nutritious foods for all populations. By synthesizing the latest research findings and identifying gaps in current knowledge, this review provides valuable insights and recommendations for future research and policy initiatives aimed at harnessing the power of food science to combat obesity and related metabolic disorders on a global scale.

The Nature of The Application of Legal Justice to The Systematics of Land Registration According to Government Regulation Number 24 0f 1997

This research aims to explore the principles of legal justice that should be applied in the process of land registration in Indonesia by analyzing whether Law No. 24 of 1997 can successfully create a fair system for all parties. a qualitative approach with normative analysis, this research outlines the various aspects of justice that should be reflected in the law. Research Result, creating a fair and equitable land registration system, there are still various technical, administrative, and social obstacles that hinder the realization of optimal application of the principles of justice. Conclusion in terms of land registration policies and practices to ensure legal justice can be realized more effectively and equitably for all Indonesian people.

Systematic literature review: implementation of inclusive education policies in Indonesia: a state administration perspective

This study thoroughly investigated the implementation of inclusive education policies in Indonesia, focusing specifically on the state administration perspective. Using a systematic literature review (SLR) approach, the research meticulously identifies meticulously identified the main challenges encountered and proposes proposed effective solutions for policy implementation. The key themes highlighted in this study include the urgent need for improved educational facilities, comprehensive teacher training programs, and the development of flexible teaching methods tailored to the individual needs of each student. Additionally, the findings underscore underscored the critical importance of stakeholder collaboration and the continuous assessment of policies to adequately meet the diverse needs of all students. This comprehensive and in-depth analysis not only contributed to a more inclusive and equitable education system in Indonesia but also provided valuable insights that are essential for future policy enhancements. By addressing these issues in detail, the study aimed to pave the way for more effective and inclusive educational practices across the nation.

Evolution of Family Education Concepts, Policies and Legalization in China

The reform and opening up has ushered in a new era in which the concepts, policies , and legalization of family education in China have gone through a significant evolution. The concepts of family education have gone through three critical phases of change: the development period, the integration period , and the modernization period. The evolution of family education policies has been divided into three phases: gradual exploration after the reform and opening up, reform and development after the 21st century, and the recent comprehensive deepening stage. The legalization process of family education also encompasses three significant developmental phases: systematic planning, scientification and specialization, and socialization. Multiple factors, including social transformation, international cultural exchanges, and parental qualities have propelled this evolutionary process. Looking ahead, developing a more comprehensive, equitable, and modern family education system will be facilitated through guidance and support from national policies, sustained reinforcement of international exchanges and collaborations, and the enhancement of parental qualities.

Building an Optimal Persistence Model for Novice Arab Minority Teachers by Emotional, School-Organizational and Educational Factors

The present study aimed to examine the persistence difficulties of novice teachers from Arab society in relation to various socio-emotional, school-organizational, and educational factors. Another aim of the study was to suggest an appropriate persistence model adapted to novice Arab teachers from Israel. To this end, 319 Israeli novice teachers from Arab society filled out questionnaires on demographics, resilience, organizational commitment, management style, inclusive school, and self-efficacy. The findings indicated significant differences among three levels of persistence difficulty groups in resilience, management style, school inclusion, and self-efficacy. Further post-hoc analysis using Scheffé's test identified significant differences between specific pairs of groups. Additionally, significant negative relationships were found between novice teachers' persistence difficulties and their organizational commitment at school, school inclusion, and self-efficacy. Stepwise multiple regression analysis revealed that self-efficacy, school inclusion, resilience, and organizational commitment explained 19.8% of the variance in novice teachers' persistence difficulties. In conclusion, a targeted support program addressing the unique socio-emotional, school-organizational, and educational training challenges faced by novice Arab teachers in Israel is essential for enhancing their persistence and professional success. Implementing comprehensive and inclusive strategies will not only improve teacher retention but also contribute to a more equitable and effective education system.

Incorporation of Trauma-Informed Care Into Entrustable Professional Activities for Medical Student Assessment.

Trauma-informed care (TIC) provides a medical framework for addressing and mitigating the negative consequences of trauma. In response to student and faculty advocacy, medical schools are developing trauma-informed curricular content. However, medical education literature does not present a comprehensive assessment rubric to evaluate medical students' acquisition of trauma-informed clinical skills. A committee of medical students, trainees, and faculty developed a longitudinal TIC curricular theme at Harvard Medical School (HMS). Guided by the National Collaborative on Trauma-Informed Health Care Education and Research competencies, the committee created a set of medical student TIC competencies from July to December 2019. From November 2021 to November 2022, 3 committee subgroups generated new TIC descriptors for each HMS entrustable professional activity (EPA), then circulated these to other subgroups, external experts, and stakeholders for review and feedback. From April to June 2023, the committee iteratively reviewed the materials until reaching consensus for content and pedagogy. The committee integrated TIC content into HMS's existing EPAs expected of students, provided anchoring descriptions of each level, and achieved consensus using a process of iterative review with TIC content experts. The committee identified 10 TIC competencies and revised all 13 general HMS EPAs to include specific items based on these competencies. The committee incorporated at least 1 trauma-informed competency into each HMS EPA. This novel set of HMS EPAs provides a framework for assessment of TIC clinical skills. Faculty will be trained to correctly and reliably incorporate TIC competencies into patient care and to use the TIC-inclusive EPAs for student assessment, ensuring that TIC is standard medical practice at HMS. This work may facilitate the adoption of trauma-inclusive EPAs by other institutions to educate the next generation of physicians to practice TIC and thus promote a more accessible, safe, and equitable health care system.

The Innovative Role of Female Scholars in Shaping Islamic Education and State Policy

This study aims to explore the innovative role of female scholars in building Islamic education and state policy. The research employs a qualitative method, including a case study at the Hasyim Asy’ari Bangsri Islamic boarding school in Jepara and in-depth interviews with female scholar Bunyai Hindun Anisa, to uncover their significant contributions. The findings show that female scholars introduce new perspectives and initiatives that create more inclusive and progressive educational environments. Key findings include significant advancements in educational paradigms and the development of gender-responsive policy frameworks that meet community needs. The study also identifies challenges faced by female scholars, such as social and institutional barriers, and provides recommendations to support and strengthen their positive impact. By highlighting the importance of female education and leadership, the research emphasizes the need for greater recognition and support from various stakeholders. It demonstrates how female scholars play a crucial role in creating a more equitable, dynamic, and sustainable educational system.

Public Health Word of the Year 2023 — Conflict

ABSTRACTThe term “conflict” resonated throughout 2023, echoing prolonged civil wars and heightened global tensions in geopolitical disputes, escalating ongoing rifts among global communities, and exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. This article explores the complex relationship between conflicts and public health, providing a thorough analysis of their dynamics and current prevalence. It aims to illuminate the diverse challenges posed and delineate a holistic path forward to mitigate violent conflicts and ameliorate health disparities, particularly among affected low‐ and middle‐income countries, by advancing an equitable and resilient healthcare system. The expanded perspective of “conflict” reveals far‐reaching consequences that extend beyond borders, significantly straining public health capacity. The world is in dire need of reinvigorating healthcare systems and de‐escalating such violent conflicts due to the relentless exhaustion of resources and the increasing demand for medical emergencies that current responses inadequately address. The damage to vital healthcare facilities in conflict zones severely hampers the provision of necessary and timely medical care, affecting a wide range of health services, including treatment for chronic illnesses, maternal and child care, and mental health support. Additionally, the continuous displacement of people in these areas increases their susceptibility to infectious diseases, raising the possibility of new outbreaks and worsening long‐standing public health challenges. Therefore, prioritizing public health in diplomatic efforts is essential for resolving conflicts and aiding recovery, through building a strong public health strategic approach for a more stable and peaceful global community.

Unveiling bias in artificial intelligence: Exploring causes and strategies for mitigation

With the rapid advancement of Artificial Intelligence (AI), the emergence of various AI models such as Stable Diffusion, ChatGPT, and MidJourney has brought numerous benefits and opportunities. Through users' extensive utilization, they have discovered biases towards gender, race, and other factors in these AI systems. This paper focuses on bias in AI and aims to investigate its causes and propose strategies for mitigation. Through a comprehensive literature review, the paper has explored the phenomenon of bias in AI-generated content. Furthermore, we examine the reasons behind bias and solutions from social and intelligence science perspectives. From a social science perspective, we examine the effects of gender bias in AI and highlight the importance of incorporating diversity and gender theory in machine learning. From an intelligence science standpoint, we explore factors like biased datasets, algorithmic fairness, and the role of machine learning randomness in group fairness. Additionally, we discuss the research methodology employed, including the literature search strategy and quantity assessment. The results and discussions confirm the existence of bias in current AI products, particularly in the underrepresentation of women in the AI development field. Finally, we present future perspectives on reducing bias in AI products, including the importance of fair datasets, improved training processes, and increased participation of female engineers and intelligence scientists in the AI field. By addressing bias in AI, the paper can strive for more equitable and responsible AI systems that benefit diverse users and promote social progress.

Reviewing the impact of climate change on global food security: Challenges and solutions

This review examines the intricate relationship between climate change and global food security, elucidating the challenges posed by climate variability and exploring potential solutions to mitigate its adverse effects. Climate change presents formidable obstacles to food security worldwide, disrupting agricultural productivity, exacerbating food shortages, and deepening malnutrition. Shifts in temperature and precipitation patterns, coupled with the increasing frequency of extreme weather events, threaten crop yields, livestock health, and food distribution networks, particularly in vulnerable regions. The review identifies key challenges confronting global food security in the context of climate change, including diminished agricultural productivity, heightened food price volatility, and heightened risks of food insecurity and malnutrition. It underscores the disproportionate impact of climate change on marginalized communities, smallholder farmers, and low-income populations, who bear the brunt of environmental degradation and lack the resources to adapt. In response to these challenges, the review explores a range of solutions and strategies aimed at enhancing food security resilience in a changing climate. It discusses the importance of climate-smart agricultural practices, such as agroforestry, crop diversification, and soil conservation, in bolstering the resilience of agricultural systems and improving resource efficiency. Additionally, the review highlights the significance of enhancing access to climate information, investing in sustainable infrastructure, and promoting gender equity in agriculture to foster inclusive and adaptive food systems. Furthermore, the review underscores the critical role of policy interventions, international collaboration, and community engagement in addressing climate-related food security challenges and advancing sustainable development goals. By integrating climate adaptation and mitigation measures into agricultural policies, promoting research and innovation, and fostering multi-stakeholder partnerships, it is possible to build more resilient and equitable food systems that can withstand the impacts of climate change and ensure food security for all. In conclusion, the review emphasizes the urgency of concerted action to address the complex interplay between climate change and global food security. Through collective efforts and targeted interventions, it is feasible to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change on food systems and pave the way for a more sustainable and food-secure future. Keywords: Impact, Climate Change, Global, Food Security, Challenges.

Towards a Successful Implementation of Online Learning in Algerian Higher Education: Readiness and Satisfaction as Key Tenets

The widespread pandemic (the Coronavirus) forced educators worldwide to change their instructional methods away from the conventional modalities, which requires a switch from the well-established face-to-face modality to an online one. To this end, the purpose of this study is twofold: to discover what attitudes actors in the pedagogical sector hold towards the underlying dimensions of readiness and satisfaction, and to pinpoint the fruitful roadmap implementation of the new online learning protocols. By exploring the readiness of students and the satisfaction of teachers, a holistic understanding of the factors that contribute to successful online education emerges. The findings of this research will offer valuable insights for educators, policymakers, and stakeholders, helping to shape a more effective and equitable educational system for the future. To undertake this study, the researcher has opted for mixed-method research that manifests in interviews with teachers and academics and a questionnaire with students at Saida University (in Algeria). The obtained results showed that the study participants demonstrated positive attitudes and significant levels of readiness, willingness, and salient satisfaction toward online learning. Furthermore, this worthy transition is a golden opportunity to ingrain in the minds of practitioners that strategic decision-making, critical thinking, adaptability, and resilience are among the fundamental tenets that determine the nature and future of a new online learning era.

WAYS OF IMPROVING THE METHODOLOGICAL FRAMEWORK OF MASSIVE EVALUATION OF REAL ESTATE IN THE REPUBLIC OF MOLDOVA

This article focuses on researching the methodological development of real estate assessment in the Republic of Moldova, addressing the significant financial losses incurred by local public administrations due to the absence of an updated, appropriate, and transparent assessment system for taxation purposes. The fundamental hypothesis posits that enhancing the methodological and institutional framework of mass appraisal will lead to a progressive evolution of the real estate market relations and the stable development of efficient and equitable tax systems in Moldova. The study aims to identify and propose solutions to current issues in the national mass appraisal system, primarily related to the unavailability of market data and the use of outdated methodologies. Employing scientific techniques such as analysis, deduction, induction, grouping, comparison, analogy, scientific abstraction, synthesis, and statistical methods, the author assess the effectiveness of proposed methodological developments by comparing quality indicators of old assessment models with those developed based on the proposed methodologies. The results obtained support the idea of creating, implementing, and sustaining a mass appraisal system as a foundational element for a fair real estate taxation system, fostering regional development, and supporting economic activities related to the real estate market in the Republic of Moldova.

Inclusive Leadership in the South African Police Service (SAPS)

The purpose of this article paper is to shed light on the value and possibilities of inclusive leadership in the South African Police Service (SAPS). Background: Gives historical background, emphasizing apartheid's legacy and how it affected the SAPS's connection with the community. Problem Synopsis: identifies the main obstacles to developing inclusive leadership, including prejudice that isn't conscious, a lack of education, and mistrust from the past. Key Takeaways/Results: Makes the case that inclusive leadership builds community trust and is necessary for efficient law enforcement. It will showcase research results that bolster this claim, like higher officer morale and better problem-solving through a variety of viewpoints. Methodology/approach: Although not a research study, the article will cite reliable sources to bolster its claims, including reports, studies, and expert comments. Importance/Repercussions: examines the benefits of having an inclusive SAPS, such as increased community ties, less crime, and an equitable judicial system. The intended audience for this post is anyone who is interested in enhancing police in South Africa. This includes members of the community, police leadership, policymakers in the Department of Safety, and anybody else who is committed to creating a society that is safer and more equitable. This essay seeks to encourage positive change within the SAPS and to start a national dialogue on the value of having a more inclusive and representative police force by highlighting the opportunities and challenges of inclusive leadership.

The impact of primary health care on AIDS incidence and mortality: A cohort study of 3.4 million Brazilians.

Primary Health Care (PHC) is essential for effective, efficient, and more equitable health systems for all people, including those living with HIV/AIDS. This study evaluated the impact of the exposure to one of the largest community-based PHC programs in the world, the Brazilian Family Health Strategy (FHS), on AIDS incidence and mortality. A retrospective cohort study carried out in Brazil from January 1, 2007 to December 31, 2015. We conducted an impact evaluation using a cohort of 3,435,068 ≥13 years low-income individuals who were members of the 100 Million Brazilians Cohort, linked to AIDS diagnoses and deaths registries. We evaluated the impact of FHS on AIDS incidence and mortality and compared outcomes between residents of municipalities with low or no FHS coverage (unexposed) with those in municipalities with 100% FHS coverage (exposed). We used multivariable Poisson regressions adjusted for all relevant municipal and individual-level demographic, socioeconomic, and contextual variables, and weighted with inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW). We also estimated the FHS impact by sex and age and performed a wide range of sensitivity and triangulation analyses; 100% FHS coverage was associated with lower AIDS incidence (rate ratio [RR]: 0.76, 95% CI: 0.68 to 0.84) and mortality (RR: 0.68, 95%CI: 0.56 to 0.82). FHS impact was similar between men and women, but was larger in people aged ≥35 years old both for incidence (RR: 0.62, 95% CI: 0.53 to 0.72) and mortality (RR: 0.56, 95% CI: 0.43 to 0.72). The absence of important confounding variables (e.g., sexual behavior) is a key limitation of this study. AIDS should be an avoidable outcome for most people living with HIV today and our study shows that FHS coverage could significantly reduce AIDS incidence and mortality among low-income populations in Brazil. Universal access to comprehensive healthcare through community-based PHC programs should be promoted to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals of ending AIDS by 2030.

“They just forget about the students”: Growing resilient urban farmers with a research practice partnership

A sustainable transdisciplinary research network was established through a research practice partnership (RPP) between an urban farm, faculty and staff from a Historically Black College (HBC), and researchers at a medium-sized private university. We investigate student-worker resilience at this urban farm situated on the HBC campus, drawing on literature that explores tensions between informal learning environments and formal spaces, equitable food systems and farming systems, as well as the resilience of farm work, and which is grounded critical food systems education theory. Utilizing a participatory design approach, we conducted semi-structured interviews and deductively analyzed the data. The research questions guiding this paper are: (1) What topics of discussion are most important to the student-workers and staff working on an urban farm, (2) How do student-workers and college staff members perceive and experience resilience on an urban farm? We found that what participants on an urban farm discuss, relating to their experiences, include (1) how participants were eager to engage with the local community, (2) how participants demonstrated resilience while working on the urban farm, (3) how power dynamics played a pivotal role informing the direction of the urban farm, (4) how participants consider community access to healthy foods an important mission for the farm, (5) how the college acted as a power wielding entity, perpetuating its privilege over the farmers and the farm operations. These findings have the potential to enable community organizing spaces to promote resilience for their volunteers and workers, and for urban farms top partner with their community to promote the mission of increasing access to healthy and affordable food options.

Machine Learning for Evaluating Hospital Mobility: An Italian Case Study

This study delves into hospital mobility within the Italian regions of Apulia and Emilia-Romagna, interpreting it as an indicator of perceived service quality. Utilizing logistic regression alongside other machine learning techniques, we analyze the impact of structural, operational, and clinical variables on patient perceptions of quality, thus influencing their healthcare choices. The analysis of mobility trends has uncovered significant regional differences, emphasizing how the regional context shapes perceived service quality. To further enhance the analysis, SHAP (SHapley Additive exPlanations) values have been integrated into the logistic regression model. These values quantify the specific contributions of each variable to the perceived quality of service, significantly improving the interpretability and fairness of evaluations. A methodological innovation of this study is the use of these SHAP impact scores as weights in the data envelopment analysis (DEA), facilitating a comparative efficiency analysis of healthcare facilities that is both weighted and normative. The combination of logistic regression and SHAP-weighted DEA provides a deeper understanding of perceived quality dynamics and offers essential insights for optimizing the distribution of healthcare resources. This approach underscores the importance of data-driven strategies to develop more equitable, efficient, and patient-centered healthcare systems. This research significantly contributes to the understanding of perceived quality dynamics within the healthcare context and promotes further investigations to enhance service accessibility and quality, leveraging machine learning as a tool to increase the efficiency of healthcare services across diverse regional settings. These findings are pivotal for policymakers and healthcare system managers aiming to reduce regional disparities and promote a more responsive and personalized healthcare service.

Out of school children in the context of new policy trajectories and interlocking crises in Zimbabwe: a transformative social policy perspective

In the past two decades, Zimbabwe has been confronted with a concerning increase in the number of out-of-school children and youth (OOSC). Emerging evidence suggests that nearly a million children fall into this category, representing approximately half of the country’s adolescent population. This phenomenon has significantly impacted on Zimbabwe’s educational landscape and socio-economic fabric. Despite its gravity, research on OOSC remains limited. To address this gap, our study triangulates data from various sources to explore OOSC prevalence, examining geographical disparities and underlying causes. In addition, we investigate the nexus between OOSC and the prevailing socio-economic crises in the country. Our analysis reveals that, despite Zimbabwe’s robust education policies and legislative framework, OOSC prevalence rates remain high. Implementation gaps persist, hindering effective solutions. The challenge of OOSC is seen being intertwined with the multifaceted crises and socio-economic dynamics affecting the nation. Geographical, wealth-based, social, religious, cultural, and economic disparities all contribute to the persistence of OOSC. To combat this challenge, we propose several recommendations rooted in the political economy-oriented concept of transformative social policy. These are crystallised around the need to develop a social contract prioritising the fulfilment of rights, social justice, human capacity, and agency. Emphasis is on the importance of a holistic approach, aligning economic policies with social goals to foster an environment conducive to education. By transforming social institutions and structures, we argue that the scourge of OOSC can be addressed and pave way for a more equitable and inclusive education system.