While the UPA government might be looking for a major improvement in education by doubling the allocation for it, in its 11th Plan, Nobel Laureate Amartya Sen opines that it’s the lack of accountability, and not dearth of resources that’s causing the sector to perform poorly.

Addressing a function organised by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) here on Wednesday Prof Sen called for accountability in the delivery of elementary education and public healthcare services, effective use of resources, and co-operation with unions in these sectors.

Underlining the centrality of expansion of elementary education for sustainable and inclusive growth he suggested deployment of more economic resources in education and better organisation of public services.

“Resources generated from economic growth should be used for public services and public goods in general, rather than being absorbed in private consumption,” he said. He suggested that accountability in the delivery of public services can be ensured through organisational reforms.

Expressing his concern at the shocking incidence of absenteeism and neglect on the part of many teachers he pointed out the poor state of the school inspection system in India. To tackle these problems he suggested positive collaboration with other social groups, particularly the unions of primary school teachers and healthcare workers. “Even though democracy can bring important benefits in the absence of universal literacy, an educated population can make even better use of democracy,” he said.