The Future of Education Policy in the State of Qatar

Abstract

This open access book provides a topical overview of education, development plans, the knowledge economy, and human development in the State of Qatar, focusing on socio-political and cultural challenges, from a policy perspective. It describes the ecosystem of education and its features, impacts, and the factors that facilitate or inhibit its current shape and development, including the pendulum of internationalization versus localization of education and indigenous knowledge. The book serves as an arena to engage vital discourse on the importance of early childhood education and inclusive education systems, particularly for those with diverse abilities. In view of the transformations occurring in the education systems in the Gulf Region over the past few decades, the book examines the advancement of education in Qatar and the critical political, economic, and cultural influences shaping education development plans, reforms, and policies. The book identifies the key factors and barriers that continue to hinder governmental initiatives in the region, in terms of the need to elevate the quality of key fields. The authors unpack the requirements imposed on policymakers in the broader Gulf region and pinpoint the need for Qatar to adopt more sustainable and state-of-the-art education policies, programs, and tools, to ameliorate the quality of education. In doing so, the book draws an all-inclusive portrayal of education in the country and its links to human and economic development. It identifies the transformations required to adapt to changing conditions, particularly within a dynamic and increasingly competitive job market. Bringing together academics and experts in public policy, education, development, and related social sciences in the Arabian Gulf, this book contributes to co-creating innovative and multidisciplinary solutions within higher education, relevant to both students and scholars in these respective fields.