Primary education in Guinea is compulsory for 8 years.[1] In 1997, the gross primary enrollment rate was 54.4 percent and the net primary enrollment rate was 41.8 percent.[1] Enrollment remains substantially lower among girls than boys. In 1997, gross female enrollment was 40.7 percent, compared to 67.7 percent for boys.[1] In 1999, primary school attendance was 40 percent.[1] One girl attends school for every two boys.[1] Children, particularly girls, are kept out of school in order to assist their parents with domestic work or agriculture.[1] Government resources for education are limited, there are not enough school facilities to adequately serve the population of school-age children, and the availability of school supplies and equipment is poor.[1]
In 1990, the Government of Guinea initiated an education sector reform program to increase enrolment, particularly for girls, and to improve education services.[1] As of 2001, the reform program was ongoing, and the government was continuing to commit funds for educational improvements.[1]
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