Financing for equity in primary and secondary education
1. Education resources to subnational governments
2. Education resources to schools
3. Education resources to students and families
4. Social policies and family support programmes
Introduction
In the Democratic Republic of Korea, under the 2015 Education Law and the 2015 Common Education Law, education is administered by the central education guidance institution and relevant supervisory and control bodies, operating under the standardised guidance of the Cabinet. Local political institutions are responsible for organising, constructing, and maintaining educational institutions within their jurisdiction. The central and supervisory institutions oversee the implementation of education policy and ensure conditions for the provision of education are met.
Article 38 of the 2015 Education Law stipulates that financial institutions must prepare and responsibly manage the education sector’s budget, which may not be misused. Article 49 of the 2015 Common Education Law further provides that funds for common education shall be guaranteed through state budgets or contributions from social and cooperative organisations. The State covers all education-related expenses, including student admissions, classroom instruction, practical training, field trips, and field investigations.
1. Education resources to subnational governments
No information was found.
2. Education resources to schools
Sponsorships and Material Support
Article 44 of the 2015 Education Law establishes the concept of “sponsorships,” under which the Cabinet and local governmental bodies may designate institutions, enterprises, and organisations to support the material and technical development of specific educational institutions. Such sponsors may provide assistance through the provision of materials or labour. The law also ensures that educational materials, experimental equipment, and teaching aids are supplied free of charge.
The State has increased investment in the improvement of educational amenities for orphans’ primary and secondary schools. Boarding schools have been established to meet both educational and daily living needs. These schools are equipped with dormitories, dining halls, and bathing facilities. Children reside on campus and are provided with food, school supplies, and seasonal uniforms at no cost.
Special Education and Accessibility
The Action Plan 2008–2010 aimed to modernise school and boarding facilities for children with disabilities. The “Access to Quality Education for Children with Sensory Impairments” project, implemented from 2013 to 2015, focused on improving living conditions in special schools across four provinces.
Rural and Remote Education Initiatives
Branch schools with small enrolments (3–4 children) have been established in counties and mountainous areas. In other cases, school trains and buses are provided to facilitate travel to schools. Graduates from education universities are encouraged to volunteer as teachers in remote, mountainous areas or on islets.
3. Education resources to students and families
Education Sponsorship Fund
Article 50 of the 2015 Education Law provides that central education guidance institutions may establish and operate an education sponsorship fund to support education-related activities. This fund is intended to strengthen material and technical resources across educational institutions.
Scholarships and Targeted Support
According to Article 14 of the 2015 Common Education Law, the State provides scholarships to designated students in blind and deaf schools, the First Middle School, and private education institutions, ensuring targeted financial support for students with special needs or in priority institutions.
4. Social policies and family support programmes
Children in remote, mountainous areas and islets, as well as those without parents or guardians, may receive additional support from the State. In some cases, these students benefit from enhanced resources and services, reflecting both government policy and broader social concern.
Scholarships for Colleges and Specialised Schools
Students are also eligible for scholarships to attend colleges and specialised schools, ensuring continued educational opportunities beyond compulsory education.
5. School meal programmes
Article 17 of the 2015 Common Education Law states that “Food supply shall be done preferentially to teachers and students and shall be guaranteed school supplies and daily necessities at a cheap price.”
