ACCESS TO EDUCATION FOR ROMA PUPILS DURING COVID-19
Abstract
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, distance learning in the Republic of Serbia has exacerbated the disparities in the quality and availability of education for children from marginalized groups. The goal of this research was to gain trustworthy insights into the organization of primary education for one such group, Roma pupils, in the city of Niš. Primary school questionnaires were used to gather data for the quantitative part of the study. Focus groups with Roma children's parents and teachers, as well as interviews with other key actors in the education system were used for the qualitative part. Research results show that Roma pupils participated in remote learning for most of COVID-19, although they attended classes differently than other pupils. Compared to non-Roma pupils, they were not afforded the same opportunities to acquire educational materials. Challenges in education during the pandemic specific to Roma pupils are primarily tied to the socio-economic conditions in which they live. Non-governmental organizations and educational assistants have been the main sources of support for these pupils in their education. Based on the research findings, recommendations have been drawn to improve the educational conditions for Roma pupils during crises and to ensure their right to education, which faces limitations in access even under regular circumstances.
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