OPPORTUNITIES AND LIMITATIONS OF THE PUBLIC INVESTMENT IN GRADUATE EDUCATION IN ECUADOR

Abstract

The objective of this paper is to analyze the effectiveness of scholarship programs1 sponsored by Ecuadorian government. Later on, the project examines actions taken by the government on improving the higher education system in Ecuador through the provision of international scholarships to fulfill people´s third-level studies, rather than allocating those funds for local universities that could have an exponential impact. Mainly, the current administration has been involved in the implementation of new reforms to boost the quality of higher education with the mission of training Ecuadorians to become leaders and innovators. Nonetheless, there are some inconsistencies since upon the return to the country grant holders take jobs as professors and not so much other fields. Therefore, the study shows the benefits and limitations in the government’s intervention in those areas. In exchange, it is recommended to strengthen local necessities and higher education.