It is becoming increasingly clear in Bangladesh how the role of the parents contributes tremendously to the academic success of the students. Researchers demonstrate how getting involved in school activities by the parents, good communication with teachers, and active helping at home can all play important roles in contributing to the academic performance of the student as well as his or her overall growth.
Research conducted across various schools in Bangladesh has revealed that students whose parents get actively involved in their studies and schoolwork tend to fare better academically, behave better, and develop better social skills. Involvement by parents means attending parent-teacher meetings, checking homework, encouraging reading, and even creating a conducive learning environment at home. Parents have a large role to play in the studies of their children. Active involvement tends not only to improve academic performance, but it also increases self-esteem as well as motivation among students. Parents and schools need to work in partnership for imbuing students with a conducive and nurturing educational environment.
Mrs. Anwara Begum, who is the guardian of a student at Viqarunnisa Noon School and College, expressed the following thoughts: "I make it a point to attend every parent-teacher meeting and stay updated with my daughter's progress. At home, I help her with her studies and ensure she has a proper study schedule. This has not only improved her grades but also boosted her confidence." Just as in the case of Mrs. Begum, active involvement of parents bears the testimony of the impact it has as a positive influence upon a student's academic life. The active interest taken by her, supported by the supportive environment at school, has helped her daughter to pave the road for her academic success.
Mr. Shahidul Islam, a guardian of a student at Residential Model College, underlined the importance of a concerted strategy when he said, "The school apprises us about our children's progress and areas where they need to improve. I regularly communicate with my son's teachers to address any problems he may have. This concerted effort has made a significant difference in his academic performance and personal growth." Mr. Islam's active involvement speaks volumes about the importance of a solid partnership between parents and teachers. Through their partnership work, they could identify and solve problems in a timely manner and make sure that children are getting the requisite support to perform well academically.
The significance of parental involvement does not end there. When parents are involved with the schooling of their children, it fosters a culture of learning in the local community. Students who see that their parents value education will be more likely to cultivate a positive attitude towards education and will carry the same positive learning attitude into their adult life. Along with that, active parental involvement can help reduce dropout rates and increase graduation rates. Parents who continue to render unwavering support to their children are hardly likely to disassociate themselves from the education system and more likely to go for higher schooling and career opportunities.
Though the benefits are evident, there are a number of hindrances in the way of parental participation in Bangladesh. Socioeconomic status of parents, lack of information, and lack of time usually keep parents away from being actively involved in the schooling of their children. Schools need to take affirmative steps towards engaging parents and providing them with the requisite resources and help. According to an educationist, "Schools should introduce programmes that enlighten the parents on the importance of their involvement and create opportunities that are flexible for them to take part in school activities. Outreach programmes and workshops for the community can also be adopted to fill the gap and ensure that all parents, no matter what their background may be, play a role in the education of their children."
True, parental involvement is an essential factor which can make a significant contribution to the academic achievement of the students in Bangladesh.. By building effective partnerships between the parents and the schools, we can create a culture in which the students are encouraged to achieve their full potential. As more and more parents realize the significance of their role, the future of education in Bangladesh has a promising outlook, with better academic achievements and a brighter future for the future generation.
Sheikh Mehzabin Chitra is a University Correspondent of Shahjalal University of Science and Technology (SUST), Bangladesh Post and a final year honours student of Anthropology Department of the institution
