How free are developing countries to develop systems of education tailored to their own individual needs? Considers the need for relevance in educational policy, the effect of colonial educational practice upon developing nations trying to create policies appropriate for their educational and political development, and the influence of the…

This essay applies a model to guide an analysis of goodness-of-fit between national and educational plans. The model is described through application to Nepal. In the process, information is collected on Nepal's 25 years of educational efforts and the reciprocal relationship to national development. (Author/KC)

Discusses author's observations of poverty-related problems within rural Sri Lankan schools. Juxtaposes literature on Third World education problems at national, district, school, and individual levels. Concludes high educational expectations in developing world are tightly constrained by poverty, negative attitudes, and weaknesses of systems.…

Points out problems of access to schooling in Zambia, especially at the primary and secondary levels and discusses existing types of alternative schooling such as night schools and supervised study groups. Argues that recent private school initiatives are not providing educational opportunities except for a few wealthy urban families. (JHZ)

Examined are the educational problems facing Nigeria, with its ethnic and religious diversity, since the civil war of 1967-70. The most promising project is the Universal Primary Education scheme under which primary education is free of charge and all primary-aged children will be in school by 1981. (KC)

Focuses on the role of African universities in national development and outlines economic and political problems hindering them from realizing their role. Suggests ways to improve the universities' effectiveness including greater cooperation between universities and government agencies, upgrading of curriculum, and basing university appointments…

African governments have immense power over their universities and are often tempted to tinker with the workings of these institutions, ostensibly to make them more responsive to the requirements of the nation. Such interference can be dangerous. Academic freedom is vital if the university is to truly serve society. (JHZ)

Examines the role of elite groups in Zambia educational policymaking in the postindependence era, using three major attempts at educational reform as illustrations. Concludes that well-to-do groups have dominated educational policy decisions to preserve their own interests and have obtained gradual reforms in spite of offically declared radical…

Shows how Tunisia's national educational program is implemented unevenly in different regions with resulting disadvantages for rural populations, especially rural girls and women. Specifies ways the politics and public policy appear to influence regional differences in educational outcomes. Examines educational, economic, and political…