<p>I have known this was a big issue since I was a small child… I am suprised it is news to some. There is nothing you can do to increase someone’s motivation much. I always had an interest in learning and in doing well in school because I wanted to get a good job that paid well and I liked getting good grades and being at the top of my class (not in English or writing classes , though!). I think it is just taboo to acknnowledge that in some areas, cultures, etc no one cares about school ( from parents to students), no one cares about doing well or getting ahead. It is not a priority in life, for different reasons, and will never be one.</p>