Textbook Support Project

Results achieved as of March 2012 include: A decentralized model for the distribution of textbooks was developed involving institutions in Mali’s education system (such as the Ministry’s regional offices school management committees and private publishers). The textbook per pupil ratio increased across the country thanks to the 1.3 million textbooks procured and distributed to primary schools. The target junior primary school ratio of two textbooks per pupil was maintained (first achieved in 2008). The senior primary school ratio increased from to three textbooks per pupil in 2009-2010 to five in 2010-2011. The gross primary enrolment rate increased from 79.5% in 2009-2010 (71.8% for girls) to 81.5% in 2010-2011 (74% for girls). The primary school completion rate increased from 56.3% in 2009-2010 (48.6% for girls) to 58.3% in 2010-2011 (51% for girls). Several tools for decentralized textbook management were developed such as a decentralized textbook procurement guide (validated by the Ministry of Education Literacy and National Languages) training modules and simulation exercises.