Effects of Inadequate Education
Without an adequate education, the chances of success for an individual are very slim. Many young people are illiterate, and thus are unable to obtain good jobs. Based on estimates, the lack of access to, and often poor quality of, the education systems in developing countries means that some 30 to 50 percent of those who leave school after four to six years of primary education are neither literate nor numerate. Around 11 percent of young people between the ages of 15 and 24 are classed as illiterate. Worldwide, around 776 million adults and young people over the age of 15 cannot read or write – just under two thirds of them women.
Between 1970 and 2006, illiteracy rates dropped from 37 to 16 percent worldwide, but on account of population growth the absolute number of those who cannot read or write has continued to rise in many regions. Ninety-eight percent of those who cannot read or write live in developing countries. |
As a result of the lack of education, young people become less skilled, resulting in an inexperienced work force. The work force, being responsible for the country’s inflow of money, is no longer able to stimulate the economy; thus, there is less money for the country to spend on education. This generates almost an infinite cycle of inadequate education.
Additionally, with so many individuals unable to make a living for themselves, a great number of people live in poverty or in other unsuitable living conditions. Without a constant flow of income, young adults are unable to support themselves or their families. Thus, a possible effect of the lack of education may be an increase in criminal activity if young people start turning to these alternative methods. |