In-depth participatory education sector analysis

An in-depth education sector analysis is usually comprised of: a diagnosis of the current situation, the elaboration of a national strategy (with a feasibility assessment of policy options), and the drawing up of action plans for policy implementation. This full-fledged sector analysis operations involve one to three year processes leading to the formulation of sector policies and programmes.

The final product may take various forms - policy framework, sector brief, master plan, action plan, etc. It can be used for a variety of purposes, including policy dialogue and resource mobilization through national conferences or donors round tables. Country-specific methodologies are developed during the sector analysis process.

In-depth sector work rests on a participatory approach aimed at promoting consensus on policy developments, enhancing national leadership and ownership as well as sustainability of reforms. At all stages of the sector study, heavy involvement of national counterparts is required, including Government officials and policy makers in and beyond the education sector (participation of the Ministries of Finance and of Planning has proven crucial in many respects), national experts and educators, and representatives of the civil society at large.

National and international participants work as a single and cohesive team, frequently through national sub-sectoral and thematic working groups. The role of external technical assistance is well circumscribed: international consultants act primarily as facilitators, providing methodological tools and technical support when deemed necessary by national partners. Training activities (both off the job and on the job), aimed at strengthening policy analysis and planning skills of national officials, often constitute important components of in-depth sector analysis projects.

Special attention is also paid to facilitating and developing a policy dialogue process both among nationals and external partners. National discussion / validation seminars are frequently held throughout the study process with a view to reinforcing national policy dialogue and promoting consensus on educational reform options. Involving donor agencies throughout this process is an effective means for attracting and better directing external funding in support of the reform programme.

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