French edition. Human Development Network Series. As the new millennium approaches,... Education will determine who has the keys to the treasures the world can furnish. This is particularly important for the poor, who have to rely on their human capital as the main, if not the only, means of escaping poverty. In this way, new challenges and opportunities arise for education. Immense progress has been achieved in education in the last 50 years. However, immense challenges still remain. This report lays out the vision for education and the ambitious international goals to which the Bank subscribes. It notes the progress so far and the gaps that remain. It describes the rich group of partners associated with the educational endeavor and how the Bank's role has evolved. It conveys the Bank's global priorities and programs to help countries progress toward the international education goals and improve the quality of teaching and learning. It illustrates the processes and operating principles that will help Bank staff contribute more effectively to better educational outcomes in each client country and to monitor success in implementing this strategy. Also available in English (Stock no. 14560) and Spanish (Stock no. 14633).