This publication is the second in a series of regional thematic studies initiated by the SEA-PLM Secretariat—SEA-PLM 2019 latest evidence in basic education.

This paper profiles children who are considered to be low reading performers in their respective countries with analyses of what these children can do and explains how they are distributed throughout the region. It then explores how systems and schools support low-performing children based on SEA-PLM data.

This paper looks at potential solutions by investigating the characteristics of children who demonstrate academic resilience—performing well despite coming from a disadvantaged background. The findings from the study contribute to policy recommendations on how low-performing children can be better supported to reduce the risk of students being left behind academically across basic education.