Close urban-rural education gap to ensure future, say academics
UPM's Wan Marzuki Wan Jaafar said better facilities in schools in rural areas, such as computer labs and internet access, will help to close the gap with urban areas. (Bernama pic)
PETALING JAYA : Closing the education gap between rural and urban areas should be one of the government's main areas of investment to ensure long-term economic success and the future of Malaysians, says an academic.
Wan Marzuki Wan Jaafar of Universiti Putra Malaysia called for better facilities such as computer labs and internet access in schools in rural areas, as well as the placement of quality teachers and the introduction of programmes that integrate education, health, and entrepreneurship.
He also said it was important to strengthen technical and vocational education and training (TVET) programmes and enhance the teaching profession through initiatives like futuristic teacher programmes.
'Targeted subsidies allow savings to be channelled directly to the education sector – the most valuable investment not just for the economy, but also for the future of the people and nation.
Wan Marzuki Wan Jaafar.
'With the right strategies in place, Malaysia can produce a knowledgeable, highly-skilled, and globally competitive generation.
'But the education budget must be supported by a comprehensive monitoring system that evaluates the impact of initiatives undertaken based on the quality of learning outcomes,' he told FMT.
In the 2025 federal budget unveiled by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, the education ministry was allocated RM64.1 billion, up from RM58.7 billion previously.
Anwar, who is also the finance minister, announced RM18 billion for the higher education sector, with the main focus being ensuring greater access to universities.
Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia's Anuar Ahmad said it was crucial that the government repair dilapidated schools and increase the number of teachers nationwide.
Anuar Ahmad.
He also called for greater assistance for students from low-income families and the implementation of programmes tailored to future learning needs.
Just like other sectors, he said, targeted subsidies should be applied in education based on the needs of students and schools to ensure good returns on investment (ROI).
'We certainly need additional funds for education, but they must be targeted and impactful in terms of the ROI.
'There must be monitoring, because we know that blanket subsidies for all students are not appropriate,' said Anuar, who is also the deputy director of UKM's Malaysian Inclusive Development and Advancement Institute.
He said additional support for the education sector could boost the country's skilled workforce, aiding economic growth and advancing the nation as a whole.
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