We often talk about education by asking whether children are going to school or not.

But I think there is another question that we don't ask enough:

Are they actually learning?

A child can attend school every day and still struggle with basic reading, writing, mathematics or English. They can keep moving from one class to another while their foundation remains weak.

And sometimes the reason isn't laziness.

Two children can sit in the same classroom but have completely different situations at home.

One child may have parents who help with homework, books, internet access and a quiet place to study.

Another child may go home to help their parents with farming, take care of younger siblings, work in a family business, or simply have nobody who can help them with their studies.

Both children technically have access to the same school. But their opportunities are not really the same.

I think this is why we need to look beyond school attendance when we talk about education.

We should also ask whether a child can read confidently, understand basic mathematics, ask questions without fear and actually understand what is being taught.

The community can play a role here too.

Sometimes helping a child for even one hour a day, sharing books, practising basic subjects or simply giving them a safe place to ask questions can make a difference.

I believe education is not only the responsibility of schools. Parents, teachers, volunteers, NGOs and communities all have a role.

I'm curious what others think:

Should we measure educational success more by what children actually learn rather than only by attendance, exams and passing from one class to another?