Equality discourse endeavors often aim to eliminate the various positionings of people in order for them to become equals. This paper aims to re-approach the notion of educational equality beyond neoliberal definitions and reconceptualize it in light of the Aristotelian "philia," with attention paid to its ethical dimensions and the…

Renewing the social contract for education is the central call of the "Reimagining Our Futures Together: A New Social Contract for Education" report from the International Commission on the Futures of Education. The International Commission outlines two foundational principles for such renewal: an expanded vision of the right to…

Summarizes results of UNESCO's review of estimates and predictions of literacy in light of new data and revised methodology. Analyzes past trends in literacy, illiteracy rates, and prospects for future development. Suggests that the target year 2000 seems unrealistic for those most disadvantaged. Includes breakdowns for disparities by sex, age…

Today more children and their parents in developing countries are without any educational opportunities because of the expense and elitist character of traditional education programs. Examples from Bangladesh show how educational opportunities can be broadened by using facilities more intensively and in innovative ways. (Author/IS)

Reviews previous experience and activities in literacy in Arab countries. Discusses the possibility of eradicating illiteracy by the year 2000. Describes the literacy strategy of the Arab states, its limitations, principles for a comprehensive literacy campaign, and examples. Includes the current status of illiteracy and actions being taken in…

Describes the development and current status of educational systems in 14 small nations or self-governing states in the South Pacific. Indicates that a primary concern is educational access and equity. Contends that the driving force behind all educational endeavors is to balance economic development with preservation of the cultural heritage.…

Examines the educational policies and recent legislation concerning special education students in countries belonging to the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). The OECD consists mostly of Western industrialized nations and Japan. Includes an overview of programs and resources, as well as several tables of statistical…

Discusses problems facing developing nations in achieving UNESCO's goal of equality of educational opportunity. Mentions continuing inequality in literacy rates between developed and developing countries, and between the sexes. Describes functional illiteracy. Blames lack of progress on rates of demographic growth, pace of educational expansion,…

Reviews the current educational policy in Latin America and the Caribbean regarding mainstreaming special education students. The current policy is committed to educational equity and the integration of special needs students into school and society. Includes a discussion of vocational education and research and development for the future. (MJP)

Asserts that vocational education for special education students is necessary for their self-esteem, independence, and integration into society. Maintains that current training is woefully inadequate since it emphasizes manual labor skills. Advocates the use of Individual Training Plans (ITP) to coordinate vocational, social, and cognitive aspects…

Presents a World Bank policy paper on vocational and technical education and training. Reviews the performance of vocational and technical education in both developed and developing nations. Provides four recommendations for donors who might wish to assist countries in meeting skill needs. (CFR)

Comments on the World Bank's policy paper on vocational and technical education and training. Argues that past failures in establishing effective vocational and technical education were a result of not applying conventional neoclassical economic theory. Asserts that the World Bank's policy paper corrects this approach. (CFR)