In 2009, ELI Africa carried out a needs assessment survey and thorough analysis of the Mauritian education system before launching the Experiential Learning Initiative program. We then sought out to remedy the shortcomings identified through our innovative, creative and hands on approach to learning.
Findings of the needs assessment survey:
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There is an increasing learning and opportunity gap leading to an achievement gap between school children hailing from low-income communities as compared to those from higher income families. As the income gap widens, the academic achievement gap of school children also widen;
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Poverty, income inequality, and lower socioeconomic status contribute to reduced access to educational opportunities, familial support, good nutrition and healthcare;
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Astronomical fees for after school hours tuitions with private tutors also contribute to the growing academic achievement gap;
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Lack of access to technology, including Internet connections and adequate hardware (computers, laptops, tablets) and software (particularly learning applications) makes students not have equitable access to the same digital and online learning opportunities because of their family’s income level or ability to pay for these technologies;
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Through the Certificate of Primary Education (CPE), an exam held at 11, the government places the highest ranked students in the best secondary schools. However, on average 35% of schoolchildren fail their CPE Exams and consequently fail to integrate mainstream educational institutions, hence limiting their long-term academic potential, earning ability and social well-being;
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Finally, the schoolchildren who fail their CPE exams are automatically assumed to be less intelligent. The Mauritian system neglects students with weaker verbal and logical intelligence, no matter how intelligent they may be in other ways.