FORUM ON GLOBAL EDUCATION REFORMS

World Bank’s Director of Education in the Human Development Network, Dr. Elizabeth King, was at the Center to share her expert views on global education reforms. Dr. King particularly talked about the study she did on global policies and strategic education issues in developing countries.

One of the things Dr. King emphasized in her talk was the need to focus on human capital formation through knowledge accumulation. According to her, there has to be intrinsic motivation to do well among children through education. The strategy she would like to promote is first, invest early, then invest smartly, and lastly, invest for all.

By investing early, Dr. King explained the importance of educating the very young children, even at birth. She also said there must be partnership among various sectors and stakeholders.

By investing smartly, Dr. King meant to say that investments should go beyond building classrooms, providing books and investing in teacher training. She encouraged thinking about how intrinsic motivation could lead to improved learning outcomes. She also said there must be good policies that can translate teacher training into good teaching inside the classroom.

By investing for all, Dr. King said “we need to take care of those who cannot take care of themselves—the poorest of the poor.” Their right to education must be ensured. She cautioned though about using the term “quality education,” which she believes is a term that has been “abused and overused.”

Present during the forum were senior officials of the Philippine Department of Education, the Asia South Pacific Association for Basic and Adult Education, the Fund for Assistance to Private Education, and Philippine Normal Univeristy. Also joining the discussion were officers and staff of the SEAMEO INNOTECH, headed by Center Director Dr. Ramon C. Bacani.