The World Bank: An Instrument of Development and Policy Change in China

The World Bank has played an important role helping to improve basic education in western and southwestern China. Education for girls and minority peoples is a priority. Despite rapid economic development, these interior areas still have high rates of poverty. How does the World Bank cooperate with officials at the national, provincial, and local levels to implement programs? What are the results of the Bank’s efforts in China and what are the lessons learned? How does the World Bank’s China experience compare with other countries in Asia? Halsey Beemer has worked for the World Bank on basic education and tertiary level education projects in China for more than two decades. He also has experience with education projects in Indonesia, Vietnam, Mongolia, and Cambodia. Previously, he was with the National Academy of Sciences, where he managed academic exchange programs between the U.S. and China. He holds a BA from Colgate University, did graduate studies in Chinese history at Stanford University, and served with the Peace Corps in the Philippines. Speaking: Halsey Beemer Consultant and Former Lead General Educator Sponsor: Moynihan Institute of Global Affairs, Co-Sponsor East Asia Program, Co-Sponsor