Real Choice: Elusive Education Quality and Equity in El Salvador

Abstract

In El Salvador, the educational legal and policy framework supports inclusive and quality education as a human right, free, and participatory, with public and private providers and the right of parents to choose the type of education they want. Even so, the right to education is not achieved, manifested in low enrollment and unequal quality conditions in economically and socially disadvantaged populations. Two recent case studies – one on faith-based education and the other on inclusive education in El Salvador – point out that, even with public and private providers, subsidies to some Catholic educational centers, and supplies of resources and food, there are poor learning results and certain populations that do not regularly attend school. These studies indicate that economic and social realities limit the possibility for Salvadoran families to decide on the type of education they desire and underestimate the value of education for their children. Faith-based education is subject to supply and demand dynamics and private funding models, although it offers some advantages that can enrich all schools. For a true educational choice based on the right to education and leading to equality, it is necessary to unite all sectors of society, both private and public institutions, with mutual learning between sectors, and promote the leadership and commitment of families to reduce aspects that are detrimental to educational quality and inclusion.