Combating Learning Loss: Helping Students Recover After Academic Setbacks

The COVID-19 pandemic may be behind us, but its impact on education is still deeply felt. Around the world — and especially in Brazil — millions of students continue to struggle with learning loss, the academic setbacks caused by extended school closures, limited resources, and socioeconomic challenges.

For students in underserved communities, these gaps are particularly severe, threatening not only their academic success but their long-term opportunities. At G&N Foundation, we believe that addressing learning loss is essential to building an equitable future.

What Is Learning Loss?

Learning loss refers to the decline in academic skills and knowledge that occurs when students are out of school or when instruction is disrupted. But it’s more than just falling behind on coursework.

It can mean:

• Lower literacy and numeracy skills than expected for their grade level.

• Weakened motivation and confidence, making it harder to re-engage in school.

• Increased dropout risks, especially among older students facing economic pressures.
  

These setbacks don’t just disappear with time — without targeted intervention, they can follow students for years.

Why Underserved Students Are Most Affected

In communities across Northeast Brazil, where G&N Foundation works, the challenges are compounded by:

• Limited access to technology during school closures.

• Overcrowded classrooms that make personalized attention difficult.

• Economic pressures forcing students to work or care for siblings.

• Emotional distress from instability, affecting their ability to learn.
  

Without support, these students risk falling permanently behind their peers.

How to Help Students Recover

Addressing learning loss requires a comprehensive and compassionate approach:

• Remedial and tutoring programs: Small-group or one-on-one sessions to catch up on core subjects.

• Extended learning opportunities: After-school programs, summer classes, and extracurricular activities that make learning engaging.

• Social-emotional support: Counseling and mentorship to rebuild students’ confidence and motivation.

• Family involvement: Encouraging parents to participate in their child’s education and provide support at home.
  

When schools, families, and communities work together, recovery becomes possible.

G&N Foundation’s Role

At G&N Foundation, we are committed to helping students overcome academic setbacks and thrive. Our initiatives include:

• Supporting schools in implementing catch-up programs tailored to their students’ needs.

• Providing scholarships to keep students in school and focused on their education.

• Partnering with communities to create safe, supportive learning environments.
  

We believe that every student deserves the chance to reach their full potential — no matter their circumstances.