VOICED: Baghdad school system struggling as pupils resume studies

Despite significant US investment, Iraq's state education system struggles with basic facilities, leading many families to prefer private schools for better education. The US invasion in 2003 saw improvements in security, allowing more children to return to school, but the state system remains overwhelmed. US efforts have built and refurbished many schools, yet literacy rates are still low. Parents with means opt for private education, hoping for a better future for their children. Critics argue that educational authorities need to learn and improve further.

What is a major reason Iraqi families prefer private schools over state schools?

• State schools are more expensive.

• State schools have more extracurricular activities.

• Private schools offer better education.

• Private schools are closer to home.

What was one of the effects of the US-led invasion in 2003 on Iraqi education?

• Improvement in state school facilities.

• Return of many students to classrooms.

• Decrease in the number of private schools.

• Closure of all state schools.

How many schools were built or refurbished with US funding?

• 1000 built and 1500 refurbished

• 500 built and 2500 refurbished

• 3000 built and 1000 refurbished

• 2000 built and 500 refurbished

What percentage of Iraqi children under 15 cannot read, according to UN figures?

• One in three

• One in five

• One in ten

• One in four

What do critics say about the educational authorities despite a budget boost?

• They have achieved all their goals.

• They still have much to learn.

• They have improved significantly.

• They are now on par with private schools.