Bush emphasized the need for high-quality education that teaches children the basics so they can qualify for good jobs as adults.

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Nick Seaton, of the Campaign for Real Education, said children needed to be taught the basics at primary school, as well as a range of subjects.

BBC: Primary education 'too narrow'

The basics concern the cash available to the further education sector.

BBC: College funding controversy

But under this government the numbers staying on in education are down, and the number of children getting catch up tuition in the basics is falling.

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Even so, more than half of students in higher education drop out before completing their courses, hobbled by money worries, a poor grounding in the basics and hectic schedules (most courses are part-time at night).

ECONOMIST: Higher education in Brazil

Technology must be implemented as part of a thoughtful, holistic approach to education transformation that includes teacher training, relevant curricula, parental involvement and programs for children that fill unmet needs for basics like nutrition and health care.

FORBES: Bill Gates