Madrasa education in crisis: evaluating educational gaps and solutions for Rohingya and host communities in Cox’s Bazar

This policy brief synthesises findings from an ERICC formative study titled “Understanding madrasa education for enhancing access to and quality of education for the Rohingyas and the host community” (forthcoming 2024), which was identified as a research priority after a comprehensive evidence review and extensive consultations with stakeholders in Cox’s Bazar. The study investigated teaching and learning practices in madrasas, the knowledge and skills imparted through various branches of the madrasa curriculum, and student assessment processes. The primary objective is to explore potential collaborations between madrasas and humanitarian education providers to improve the quality of education. The brief highlights the role of madrasa education in providing access to education for both Rohingya refugees and the host community, as well as the challenges such as inadequate infrastructure and teacher training. To enhance the quality of madrasa education, the brief recommends a multifaceted approach for both communities, including socio-emotional learning, professional development for teachers, mental health support and gender equality.