Perspectives: Racial and Social Justice in Education

A Conversation with Assistant Professor Anjali Adukia

How do the most basic needs affect young children’s ability to develop? Assistant Professor Anjali Adukia’s research focuses on efforts to reduce inequalities in education, so that children from historically disadvantaged backgrounds have equal opportunities to fully develop their potential. Her research is focused on understanding factors that motivate and shape behavior, preferences, attitudes, and educational decision-making, with a particular focus on early-life influences – including research into the availability of latrines in schools in India, the effect of poor transportation infrastructure on education, and the effects of gendered or racialized messages in children’s textbooks. Her research emphasizes how the provision of basic needs—such as safety, health, justice, and representation—can increase school participation and improve child outcomes in developing contexts.

Held quarterly, Harris’ “Perspectives” series features policy leaders and scholars with diverse viewpoints and lived experiences who are confronting crucial questions of diversity, equity, and inclusion in their work to advance social justice through innovative policies. The theme for this year’s series is education as we dive into challenging topics such race, equity, and disparate impact at various levels in the system.

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