Higher Education in the BRICS Countries

This insightful exploration of higher education in the BRICS countries reveals complex dynamics influencing educational systems and their societal roles.

In Higher Education in the BRICS Countries, the authors explore the evolving landscape of higher education within the BRICS nations—Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. Despite the growing significance of these countries on the global stage, there has been a surprising lack of research focused on how social expectations regarding higher education have shifted in recent years. The book challenges the traditional functionalistic perspectives that view education systems as mere tools of government policy, arguing instead that these systems are influenced by a complex interplay of internal and external factors.

The authors emphasize that national higher education systems are not static entities; they develop and change through a dynamic process that includes the aspirations of the population, governmental expectations, market forces, and the unique institutional traditions of each country. This multifaceted approach reveals that higher education cannot be viewed as a monolithic sector. Instead, it is essential to understand the various drivers that shape the relationship between higher education institutions and society, including the increasing role of private firms in the education market.

Ultimately, Higher Education in the BRICS Countries encourages readers to rethink the social compact between higher education and society at large. By examining the interplay of distinct factors that influence this relationship, the book provides valuable insights into how higher education can better serve the needs of diverse communities and adapt to the challenges of an ever-changing global landscape.