I must say that you bring up a very interesting question. You are right, the problem is cyclical. I think though, a move targeting the education system must be done.
Schools are used for more than learning to read and write. A public school system where the children do not have to pay to go to school, the teacher are paid, and meals are provided is a great place to start imcremental change.
I will continue reading the ends and outs of this policy for how it affects the adult sector.