Session Overview: Capacity Development

Capacity Development for Educational Systems in Fragile Contexts


Global Consultation 2009, Istanbul

Wednesday 1 April 11:00-12:45, Concurrent Learning Session Block 3

Abstract

It is now well documented and recognized that a lack of capacity is one of the bottlenecks preventing the harmonious development of education systems in any developing country. Given this challenge, the Fast Track Initiative (FTI) for Education for All recently issued guidelines to support decision-making and planning of capacity development strategies in its partner countries.

In fragile contexts, the capacity challenge is even sharper and may take different dimensions, namely based on the following considerations:

  • Many human resources have fled the country or been destroyed by conflict;
  • Organisational and implementation capacities have generally been dramatically reduced (including the capacity of public education service provision);
  • Institutional capacities are subject to the survival of the State and its fulfilment of the core regulation functions;
  • Simultaneously, there is a pressing need and demand for restoring the basic social services, and especially education, in acceptable time frames.


Given the abovementioned context specificities of fragile environments, the strategic approach recommended for developing countries in general may not be appropriate, and the method for building effective and sustainable capacity development strategies needs to be adapted, building on a solid assessment of the situation.

Based on these empirical observations, an issue paper on "Capacity Development for Educational Systems in Fragile Contexts" has been developed, which could serve as a basis for further practical work for country-oriented support. The issue paper will be presented and discussed. In addition, experience on teacher education in Afghanistan will be shared.

Session Objective

  • Objective 1: Enhancing dialogue on capacity development in fragile contexts among INEE members


Expected Outcome

  • Outcome 1: Identification of key activities for WG on Education and Fragility


Panel

Chair: Rüdiger Blumör, GTZ

Presenters:

  • Lynn Davies, University of Birmingham
  • Susan Wardak, Ministry of Education Afghanistan
  • Facilitator: Keith Holmes, ETF


For further information on this session please contact the Session Coordinator Omnia Nour at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

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