During the 1980s there was a growing awareness of the importance of designing policies to develop education systems adapted to observed and anticipated changes in technology, production, employment opportunities, international relations, communications and trade, as well as to changes in cultural and social patterns. This adaptation was marked by more pressing economic and financial constraints than in the past, especially in countries that were forced to adopt structural adjustment policies, and by the reduction of employment demand. This has led to a search for educational opportunities that would cope more effectively with these new challenges within each country's specific socio-cultural context.
For many countries, new strategies have been defined, drawing on research results, using new management techniques and financial arrangements, and introducing educational innovations, often using the new information and communication technologies. UNESCO has focused on developing national capacities and international cooperation for appropriate educational policies and strategies, and on supporting areas of educational management, innovation, technology and research.