Education for rural development: towards new policy responses: a joint study conducted by FAO and UNESCO

This publication presents a new perspective for educational development in rural areas, reviews trends and innovations in basic education for rural children and looks at training issues and higher education strategies to foster knowledge and skills in rural societies. Poverty reduction and food security are at the centre of the development agenda. The concentration of poverty lies in rural areas where 70 per cent of the world’s poor live. Tackling the illiteracy and low school achievement in these areas is essential in achieving sustainable development. Therefore, poverty reduction strategies are now placing emphasis on rural development that encompasses all those who live in rural areas. For many years, the approach followed by policy-makers and education specialists has been to focus on practical and occupational agricultural skill training provided mainly at the secondary and tertiary levels. However, education for rural development requires an holistic approach going beyond the narrow boundaries of the traditional agricultural education and training concept. The book also counters conventional wisdom and educational policies that have guided the provision of education in rural areas for several decades. Various contributions describe current trends and innovations in improving the provision and quality of basic education in rural areas. On the practical side, it also discusses skill development challenges, and analyses emerging strategies developed by innovative higher education institutions to cope with the new educational and rural environment.

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