The book, "PRIVATISATION IN AND OF PUBLIC EDUCATION", edited by Antonina Santalova and Kaire Põder, focuses on the experiences and insights from three continents, illustrating that privatisation occurs globally both endogenously, meaning within public sector, and exogenously, of changing ownership of schools. The main triggers for privatization are manifold; the historical meritocratic feedback effect is one example. However, in many cases, privatization compensates for state failure, and markets provide educational opportunities to the poor.
The book demonstrates that private schools are more efficient after controlling for student background and other resources. This argument incentivizes the public sector to introduce private managerial tools and practices into education. However, doing so may easily undermine public and equity objectives. Thus, the evidence presented on which practices of private schools – such as smaller classes, increased use of technology, autonomy, and selective admissions – can be both effective and equitable, makes the book unique.
The book includes chapters from Asia, covering regions from China through post-Soviet Central Asia to Gulf Cooperation countries. It also covers various European countries, from Finland to Ireland, and countries in the Americas, from the USA to Honduras. Additionally, it should be noted that few sources include informal education in this debate. The book features chapters on the organisation of extracurricular education and (private) tutoring.
We thank all 27 contributors to the book, Andreas Veispak for leading the debate, and all colleagues present. The vibrant discussion on similar issues in higher education should continue. Is education a private or public good? Read the book and decide for yourself.
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