COVID-19: Pathways for the Return to Learning

As education systems start to reopen and support students to return, four responses are most relevant in the return to learning: extended instructional time, catch-up programmes, remedial education, and accelerated education programmes (AEP). These programmes increase the amount of instructional time, provide additional support, or prioritise learning outcomes to help learners get back on track.

Because education serves an essential protective function, first and foremost, education planners must ensure that all learners—especially the most marginalized—are able to return to school by addressing barriers to equitable access and learning exacerbated by COVID-19.

It is essential to identify the most appropriate education response to ensure learners return, stay in, and complete school, and so programmes can be most effective.