The Impact of Poverty on Educational Outcomes for Children in Bhutan

Abstract

Child poverty is a global problem that affects approximately half of the world's children; it is inextricably linked to the poverty experienced by parents and their families and has been identified by the United Nations as a human rights issue. The ability to receive an education is restricted by poverty, yet obtaining an education is also one of the primary means of escaping it. Poverty is a persistent problem worldwide and has a detrimental impact on almost every aspect of family life and child outcomes. Financial constraints keep a family from placing a high priority on schooling. Compared to children from high-income families, children from low-income homes are four times more likely to lack access to education and are at risk for academic and social problems as well as poor health and well-being, which can in turn undermine educational achievement. However, it is crucial to remember that different people have different circumstances and that poverty does not always have the same effect on educational outcomes.