Rate My Professor Ritesh Shah

Professor Ritesh Shah is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Critical Studies in Education within the Faculty of Education and Social Work at the University of Auckland. He joined the faculty’s academic staff in 2013 after completing his Doctor of Philosophy in Education at the University of Auckland, where his thesis examined the politics of education. He leads the university’s efforts in Comparative and International Education research and teaches courses in the Faculty of Education and Social Work while supervising postgraduate students at master’s and doctoral levels.

Shah’s scholarship and teaching focus on the political economy of education provision in times of conflict and crisis, critically examining education in emergencies and the role of foreign aid. His research investigates how quality, relevant, and inclusive education in conflict- and crisis-affected contexts can contribute to more just, equitable, and peaceful societies, aligning with global ambitions such as those in the Sustainable Development Goals. He has been recognised with the Early Career Research Excellence Award for his innovative and ground-breaking work aimed at making a difference for vulnerable populations affected by international conflicts and disasters. Shah’s contributions include numerous publications in the field, with his work cited extensively across academic platforms.