Educational Development in Micronesia 1945-1968
Ballendorf, D.A. (1984). "Educational Development in Micronesia 1945-1968". Asian Culture Quarterly. 12 (4): 51–57.
- Has attachment: File:TW9BZCEL.pdf
Abstract: The paper "Educational Development in Micronesia 1945-1968" explores the economic challenges and development strategies facing the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) post-independence. The key issues discussed revolve around the imbalance of government expenditures versus locally generated revenues, and the heavy reliance on US economic support which created a macroeconomic environment unsustainable by the FSM alone.
The document emphasizes the necessity for economic development in agriculture and fishing, typical for Pacific Islands, which requires an integrated approach that prioritizes access to labor, land, water, technology, credit, and markets. A significant challenge identified is the local population's reluctance towards modern farming methods, though there's been some progress due to programs like school lunches stimulating local farming activity.
With limited economic policy choices under constrained conditions, the paper compares import substitution with export promotion strategies. It discusses the benefits and pitfalls of a large-scale tuna processing project on Dublon (Tonoas) Island, including investment, operational challenges, and the impact on local resources.
The paper advocates for small-scale, community-focused developments instead. It suggests building a network of community extension workers to increase production sustainably, drawing parallels with "barefoot doctor" schemes. This approach would entail training local labor through existing education systems and utilizing local resources efficiently. Furthermore, it highlights the importance of improving access to productive inputs and developing small-scale farming and fishing systems, considering social and logistic factors inherent in FSM society. Despite proposing these focused development strategies, the paper acknowledges the necessity of external assistance given the prevailing macroeconomic conditions.
The conclusion discusses the political and social dynamics within FSM, raising concerns about the internal political willpower and existing bureaucratic challenges. The paper outlines potential future scenarios, including uneven entry by international capital, potential bankruptcy, or increased emigration under the compact with the US, which allows FSM citizens to migrate without visas. All these aspects look toward a desire for more economic self-sufficiency balanced against the practical realities and potential paths forward for FSM.
