Educational Condition of Rava Tribe at Higher Secondary Level: A Case Study of Alipurduar District with Special Reference to Kumargram Block

Abstract: Alipurduar is residence of a diverse range of castes and tribes, including the Ravas, Garos, Meches, Totos, Dhimals, Koches, Nepalis and Rajbangshis. Rava community is one of the Mongoloid ethnic groups located primarily in Assam, West Bengal and Meghalaya. They have a distinct culture, tradition and economic practices. Various researchers have observed several transformations and developmental shifts in their education, culture, socio-economic and various traditional practices over the years. Due to their remoteness, modern formal education and scientific advances had minimal impact on Rava community. Even today a sizable portion of Rava children remain absent from school, a sizable portion drop out at an early age, and just a small number are able to advance their skills. This study tries to investigate the current educational situation of Rava community at the higher secondary level in Kumargram Block of Alipurduar district. This study also highlights the factors that lead to the educational backwardness of Rava people in this district and makes some helpful recommendations for effective solutions. Descriptive survey method has been employed by the researcher. It is found that the major barriers to education of the Rava community are financial Crisis, general disregard for education, lack of social awareness, and traditional occupations. Some of the proposals that resulted from this study to remove barriers to education for the Rava Community include organizing awareness camp, career counseling, establishing a community library, providing excellent education, providing financial support, and including the local community in policymaking.