| The dissertation tells the story of the 1996 higher education reform in the historical context of Salvadoran education. It describes the process and recommendations of the higher education sector assessment (1993) and its effects on higher education reform in El Salvador, 1995–2000. The assessment resulted from the collaboration between the government of El Salvador, the United States Agency for International Development [USAID], and a team from the Harvard Institute for International Development [HIID].; The sector assessment recommendations focused on current and future needs. The premise of the study was that a research-driven, stakeholder connected plan would contribute to solving the educational problems connected to national development. The timing of this work proved critical, coinciding with the conclusion of the 1992 peace agreements ending the civil war and with the elections that chose the government that implemented the peace.; The dissertation was sparked by the lack of success of previous external aid, particularly for educational development. Where many other external efforts failed to make a real impact in development, this project provided the data that led to policy resulting in a successful reform law. The assessment provided the research to inform planning and policy, and guide implementation. The success of the connection of research, policy, and law was remarkable, and made a strong case for higher education's role in social and economic development.; The dissertation also explains this process from its historical origins though implementation. The case study suggests a heroic role for the ‘Cristiani generation’ of the Salvadoran elite in the development of democratic government and its enlightened role in social and economic reform. The policy and events that implemented a higher education reform were connected to social and economic reform that also included a Salvadoran ‘left’ willing to abandon revolution for democracy in its search for social and economic opportunity and justice.; In the end, the Salvadoran reform experience was a lesson for other post-war and developing countries. |
