The Political Economy of Education in Central Asia: Evidence from the Field

This book examines the role of education in promoting social cohesion in Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan through a Political Economy Analysis (PEA) lens. It explores existing discourses on national identity, religion, language, gender, inclusion, internationalization of education, and non-state actors and aims to promote education as a tool for social change.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 251 pages
Publication date: 04 February 2024
Publisher: Springer Verlag, Singapore

This open-access book is a unique contribution to the ongoing debate on the role and challenges of education in Central Asia in fostering social cohesion. By examining education challenges within the broader historical, social, political, and cultural context of Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan, the contributions explore existing discourses concerning national identity, religion, language, gender, inclusion, internationalization of education, and non-state actors through a Political Economy Analysis (PEA) lens. Recognizing education's dual role as a powerful mechanism of social reproduction and a driver of social change, the book aims to promote political economy analysis of education as a valuable analytical tool for educational debates and reform agendas in the region. It is a valuable resource for policymakers, practitioners, and scholars alike, both in Central Asia and beyond.

The book begins by providing an overview of the educational landscape in Central Asia, highlighting the historical, social, and political factors that have shaped the region's educational systems. It then delves into the specific challenges faced by each country, including issues related to access, quality, equity, and relevance.

In Chapter 1, "Education in Kazakhstan: Challenges and Opportunities," the authors examine the historical development of education in Kazakhstan and its role in shaping national identity. They explore the country's efforts to promote inclusive education and address gender disparities in education. The chapter also discusses the challenges posed by globalization, including the need to internationalize education and adapt to the changing demands of the labor market.

Chapter 2, "Education in Tajikistan: Context and Challenges," focuses on the educational challenges faced by Tajikistan, a country with a rich cultural heritage and a history of conflict. The authors examine the country's efforts to promote inclusive education and address issues related to language barriers and regional disparities. They also discuss the role of non-state actors in education, including religious organizations and community-based organizations.

Chapter 3, "Education in Uzbekistan: Historical Development and Challenges," explores the historical development of education in Uzbekistan and its role in shaping national identity. The authors examine the country's efforts to promote inclusive education and address issues related to gender disparities and regional inequalities. They also discuss the role of non-state actors in education, including private schools and educational foundations.

Throughout the book, the authors employ a Political Economy Analysis (PEA) lens to examine the complex relationships between education, social cohesion, and economic development. They argue that education is not just a means of social reproduction but also a tool for social change and economic development. They highlight the importance of promoting education as a public good and investing in education as a means of promoting social mobility and reducing inequality.

The contributions in this book offer valuable insights into the role and challenges of education in Central Asia. They provide a comprehensive analysis of education systems in the region and highlight the need for policymakers, practitioners, and scholars to engage in ongoing discussions and debates about education reform. The book also provides a roadmap for policymakers and practitioners seeking to improve education systems in the region, including recommendations for promoting inclusive education, improving access to quality education, and addressing gender disparities in education.

In conclusion, this open-access book is a valuable contribution to the ongoing debate on the role and challenges of education in Central Asia in fostering social cohesion. By examining education challenges within the broader historical, social, political, and cultural context of Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan, the contributions explore existing discourses concerning national identity, religion, language, gender, inclusion, internationalization of education, and non-state actors through a Political Economy Analysis (PEA) lens. Recognizing education's dual role as a powerful mechanism of social reproduction and a driver of social change, the book aims to promote political economy analysis of education as a valuable analytical tool for educational debates and reform agendas in the region. It is a valuable resource for policymakers, practitioners, and scholars alike, both in Central Asia and beyond.

Weight: 366g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789819985197
Edition number: 1st ed. 2023