HC Deb 06 June 1956 vol 553 cc55-6W
46. Mrs. Butler

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what steps are being taken within the primary system of education in Nyasaland and Northern Rhodesia to prepare girls for higher education and entrance to the University College of Rhodesia.

Mr. Hare

Education for children who are not Africans is the responsibility of the Federal Government. As regards African education, the main obstacle to progress in both territories is the reluctance of parents to let their girls stay at school. Great efforts are being made to overcome this by Government propaganda and personal persuasion.

In Northern Rhodesia girls at boarding schools receive grants of 75 per cent. of boarding costs as compared with 50 per cent. for boys; and no girl in either territory who qualifies for the upper primary or secondary course is refused a place.

The number of girls at school in both territories is increasing steadily. The Governments are giving special priority to the development of girls' upper primary schools, particularly at missions where European women teachers are available.