Citation

Vasconcellos EA. J. Transp. Geogr. 1997; 5(2): 127-136.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1997, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1016/S0966-6923(96)00075-0

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Rural children in developing countries face many problems in getting to and staying in school. In addition to well-known social and economic factors, distance-related obstacles to schooling are very important but surprisingly disregarded in the available literature. This paper analyzes the present situation in rural Brazil and specially in the state of São Paulo, where a large rural school transport system has been operated since the 1960s. The analysis considers mainly policy issues as a guide to the provision of rural pupil transport. The analysis considers also the advantages and limitations of different strategies for improving the access to schools in rural areas of developing countries. An example of pupil transport coupled to rural school consolidation is provided. Finally, a preliminary framework for the definition of a specific public policy is proposed.