Hungary Should Avoid Uniform Approach to Disadvantaged Students, Official Says

Hungary should avoid a one-size-fits-all national policy for supporting students from disadvantaged backgrounds, according to Rita Rubovszky.

“

it is not possible to apply a national mowing-down principle.

Rubovszky emphasized that while it might be acceptable for institutions in disadvantaged areas to receive more support staff, such as developmental or special education teachers, a nationwide "mowing down" approach is inappropriate. She pointed to stark regional differences in the proportion of students facing disadvantages.

For example, in several villages like Rakacaszend, Selyeb, Hernádkak, Köröm, Hangony, and Fülöp, the percentage of students from heavily disadvantaged backgrounds ranges from 80 to 100 percent. Significant disparities are also evident between regions. In the Southern Great Plain region, the proportion of disadvantaged students in public education is 10 percent, compared to 8 percent in Catholic schools. In the Southern Transdanubia region, this figure rises to 17 percent.

“

the proportion of students from heavily disadvantaged backgrounds reaches 80–100 percent.

Given these variations, Rubovszky stated that the issue requires a thorough investigation to ensure that educational support is tailored to the specific needs of different communities and regions across Hungary.

“

the question requires thorough investigation.