Chapter 162 Napoleon's Proposed Education Reform



A month had passed since Napoleon took office at the Palace of Versailles. As the head of state, he had seamlessly adapted to his new workplace, fully immersed in the daily affairs of managing the state. Today was no different; he was engrossed in reviewing important documents when Beaumont entered the office and quietly positioned himself to the side of the door.

"The Minister of Interior," Beaumont announced, and without delay, Lucien, the Minister, promptly entered Napoleon's office.

Napoleon glanced up from his work, his piercing gaze meeting Lucien's. He acknowledged the Minister's presence with a nod, signaling for him to come over.

"Lucien, my brother. I have been waiting for you," Napoleon said, gesturing to him to take a seat.

Lucien took his seat and straightened himself. He looked around his office for a moment before speaking. "This office sure is huge."

"I agree," Napoleon concurred as he set down the document he was reading. "How are you faring as the Minister of Interior?"

Lucien let out a faint smile, seemingly amused by the enormity of the office he now occupied. "It is quite a change from my previous responsibilities, but I'm settling in well."

"Good, because I have something you would work on," Napoleon said as he reached to the drawer of his desk, and pulled out a file.

Lucien looked at it curiously, wondering what it contained. Napoleon handed it over to him.

"What's this?" Lucien flipped the file open and began reading the contents. Inside was a draft for a new proposed education system in France.

"I'm planning on reforming the education system," Napoleon revealed. "And given your position as the Minister of Interior, you are the one, you are the one I trust to oversee the implementation of this reform once passed from the senate."

"Education...reform," Lucien repeated.

"Brother, what do you know about our current educational system?" Napoleon asked.

Lucien hummed in thought, coming up with an answer. "Let's see, it's decentralized, fragmented, not standardize, and only the privileged only have access to education."

"You are right, and I want to change that," Napoleon said.

During the ancien regime, education was largely reserved for the privileged classes, such as the aristocracy, clergy, and wealthy bourgeoisie. Nobles and high-ranking individuals received exclusive opportunities for private tutoring or attendance at elite schools, while the common people faced significant limitations in accessing formal education. Notably, the Catholic Church played a major role in education, particularly in rural areas, where religious institutions ran many schools and incorporated religious teachings into the curriculum.

Aside from the education reforms, Napoleon planned on introducing modern concepts to this world. Just like how he introduced the concept of thermodynamics, he would introduce major concepts in specialized fields. For example, in the field of medicine, Napoleon envisioned the establishment of specialized medical practitioners. He sought to introduce the concept of "specialists," doctors who would focus on specific areas of medical expertise. During the 1800s, medical practice was often more general, with physicians handling a wide range of medical conditions and treatments.

Another example would be a pharmacy, where he would introduce modern pharmaceutical concepts and practices. One that would make those who take the field to be adept at making drugs.

In the field of engineering, there would also be specialization. Civil, mechanical, marine, chemical, industrial, and electrical engineering would become distinct disciplines.

And to top it all, those who graduated from higher education in those fields would be granted a license, officially recognizing them as qualified professionals in their respective areas of specialization. Only those with a valid license could practice as doctors, engineers, pharmacists, and other specialized professionals, ensuring a high standard of expertise and competence across the nation.

But what would happen to those who are already architects, engineers, and scientists should the reform pass? Well, Napoleon had a simple solution for that as well. Certification and recognition.

He would establish a transitional period during which experienced individuals from different fields would apply for certification that would have stringent criteria to evaluate their expertise. Napoleon understood that abruptly dismissing the existing professionals from their roles would cause disruption and potentially undermine the nation's progress. Therefore, he opted for a pragmatic approach to ensure a smooth transition while still upholding high standards.

Thirty minutes later.

"So, what do you think of the new education system brother?" Napoleon asked.

"I'd say your approach is good brother. But this reform is going to increase my workload if passed. I suggest you create a new ministry that will oversee the implementation of the education reform," Lucien replied.

Napoleon nodded in agreement, appreciating his brother's insight. "You are right. This reform is a significant undertaking, and it deserves its own dedicated ministry. You will help me with this okay?"

"Of course, brother," Lucien assured.

As they were having a conversation, another person entered. Lucien and Napoleon turned their faces toward that person, and they recognized the person.

"Madame Bonaparte," Lucien greeted.

"Oh, you were in the middle of a conversation with your Minister of Interior," Ciela said. "I'll return..."

"No," Napoleon stopped her in her tracks. "My brother and I just finished discussing. What is it, darling?"

"Uhm," Ciela walked over to him and handed him a document.

Napoleon grabbed the document and perused the contents. A satisfied smile crept on his face as Ciela had finally gathered the engineers and architects for his major construction projects.

"Lucien, review the education reform that I just gave you and send it to the Council of State for them to propose," Napoleon ordered.

"Consider it done, brother," Lucien said, rising to his feet. He turned to Ciela and bowed.