Barriers to Education: Why Many Children in the Dominican Republic Can’t Attend School

Economic Struggles at Home

A major obstacle is poverty. According to UNICEF and other international organizations, a significant portion of Dominican families live below the poverty line. When basic needs like food, housing, and healthcare are not guaranteed, school attendance can feel like a distant priority. Many children are expected to contribute to household income through informal work, such as selling goods on the street or assisting in family businesses. Even when public schools do not charge tuition, families must cover the costs of uniforms, textbooks, and transportation—expenses that quickly add up and become prohibitive for low-income households.

Transportation itself is another financial burden. Rural areas often lack reliable roads and affordable transit options. For a child living miles from the nearest school, daily travel can be both costly and unsafe. Some children attempt to walk long distances, but the effort and time involved can discourage consistent attendance, especially during extreme weather.

Shortages in Schools and Resources

Beyond household poverty, the school system faces systemic challenges. Overcrowded classrooms, limited teaching materials, and aging facilities are common in many districts. While the government has increased education funding, the demand for qualified teachers still outpaces supply, particularly in rural communities. Schools without adequate staffing or proper infrastructure can struggle to provide a stable learning environment, prompting families to question whether sending their children is worth the effort and cost.

Additionally, access to early childhood education remains uneven. Children who miss these formative years often start primary school already behind, making them more likely to drop out later. Without intervention, these gaps widen over time, perpetuating a cycle in which disadvantaged children remain disadvantaged adults.

Social and Cultural Factors

Cultural expectations also play a role. In some communities, girls are more likely to leave school early due to early marriage, pregnancy, or domestic responsibilities. Boys, meanwhile, may face pressure to start working at a young age to help support their families. These societal norms, combined with economic realities, create powerful forces that pull children away from classrooms.

Local and International Efforts

Despite these challenges, many organizations are working to make education accessible to all Dominican children. Community-based programs raise funds to supply school materials, pay for transportation, and improve facilities. International nonprofits partner with local leaders to train teachers and create after-school programs. These efforts, while impactful, need sustained support from both the Dominican government and global partners to create lasting change.

A Call to Action

Ensuring every child in the Dominican Republic can attend school requires a multi-pronged approach: stronger economic support for families, improved infrastructure, and a cultural shift that prioritizes education. When children receive the education they deserve, they gain the tools to build brighter futures—not just for themselves, but for their entire communities. Addressing these barriers is not only a moral imperative; it’s an investment in the nation’s long-term prosperity.