Primary Education Access across Southeast Asia, 2023

Most Southeast Asian countries reported high levels of access to primary education in 2023, according to the ASEAN Key Figures 2024 report. The latest data underscores the region’s ongoing efforts to ensure that children receive essential early education, though disparities still persist among member states.

At the forefront of the region’s education performance are Singapore and Viet Nam, each achieving a 99.1% primary education access rate—the highest in Southeast Asia. Thailand follows closely with 98.2%, while Indonesia registers a strong 97.9%.

Lao PDR (97.7%) and Brunei (97.5%) also reflect robust access to primary schooling, with Malaysia (97.4%) and the Philippines (87.7%) maintaining relatively high but slightly lower figures.

However, Cambodia reports an access rate of 86.8%, while Myanmar stands out as the regional outlier, with a notably lower rate of 54.8%—less than two-thirds of children having access to primary education.

Progress and Gaps in Regional Education Equity

The report highlights the success of regional policies and investments in promoting universal education, especially in countries like Singapore, Viet Nam, and Thailand. These nations have consistently prioritized education as a key pillar of national development, supported by comprehensive public policies and significant government expenditure.

In contrast, the stark gap seen in Myanmar reflects broader socio-political and economic challenges, including conflict, poverty, and under-resourced education systems. Experts warn that such disparities threaten the long-term goal of educational equity across ASEAN.

Moving Forward: Bridging the Educational Divide

While the overall trend is positive, education policymakers are urged to focus on inclusive strategies that ensure no child is left behind—particularly in countries with lower access rates. Regional collaboration, targeted funding, teacher training, and infrastructure development are key areas that could help narrow the educational divide.

As ASEAN continues its journey toward sustainable and inclusive development, ensuring equal access to primary education will remain a critical measure of progress.

Source: ASEAN Key Figures 2024