Fundamental education replaces missed primary education; however the right to fundamental education is far broader. The Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (CESCR) provides the following interpretation of fundamental education (Article 13 (2) (d) ) in General Comment 13:

“It should be emphasised that enjoyment of the right to fundamental education is not limited by age or gender; it extends to children, youth and adults, including older persons. Fundamental education, therefore, is an integral component of adult education and life-long learning. Because fundamental education is a right of all age groups, curricula and delivery systems must be devised which are suitable for students of all ages” (Para.24).

Furthermore, the CESCR adds that ‘fundamental education’ in general terms corresponds to ‘basic education’, as laid out in the World Declaration on Education for All (1990, Jomtien Declaration).