Positioned at the local level, the District Education Office (DEO) plays a strategic role in the successful implementation of decentralization policies and the improvement of education quality. It is the link between Ministry and schools: as it is the administrative unit closest to schools, it is responsible for implementing national policies and monitoring school quality while at the same time informing the Ministry of what goes on in schools. It also links the district administration (the municipality, other district offices, etc.) to the Ministry and to the schools.
Findings
To gain a deeper understanding of the mandate of DEOs in contexts of decentralization, and the challenges they face in this regard, the Institute examined in detail several districts in 11 countries in Africa and Asia.
Research results showed that strengthening the strategic role of the DEO involves:
- reformulating its mandate, by focusing on its main assets and areas of expertise;
- developing the capacities of district education officers in leadership, management, strategic planning, statistical analysis, communication and networking;
- developing attractive posts through a clear profile, appropriate recruitment processes and regular professional development opportunities;
- involving the DEOs in decisions related to the management of human and financial resources, for increased relevance to their needs;
- strengthening the collaboration with the central and district level authorities.
