Informations et ressources scientifiques
sur le développement des zones arides et semi-arides

Titre : How the Formal Education System in Kenya is Changing the Culture of the Maasai Community

Auteur : Coles, Jennifer,

Université de soutenance : Wilfrid Laurier University

Grade : Master of Arts (MA) 2008

Résumé partiel
Colonialism brough Africa into the sphere of European dominance and laid the ground work for the adoption of neoliberal globalization. This has affected change for the Maasai of southern Kenya who had attempted to remain isolated for much of the 19th and 20th centuries. However, such cultural isolation has been disrupted by global tourism and the desire of western citizens to view and participate in ‘authentic’ experiences in unique Maasai environments ; thus creating a global desire to visit the Maasai Mara National Reserve (MMNR). The MMNR is part of Maasailand and has exposed many in the surrounding communities to new western ideas and ideals. This exposure, alongside the increasing role of supranational organizations such as the United Nations, has created a desire and demand within the Maasai community to participate in education, which in turn has taught some of the Maasai how to become ‘good western’ citizens. Other supranational organizations such as the World Bank and International Monetary Fund have created contradictions in the development process by limiting the amount spent on formal education. This means that students in rural schools, such as the Maasai, are forced to endure a lower quality of education, which does not provide the tools needed to engage in the modern economy.

Présentation

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