Analysis of funding for education and school outcomes in Africa

Given its significance in developing human capital, education is one of the sectors which is globally prioritized. UNESCO requires governments to allocate 25 per cent of their budgets to education. Despite the growing budget allocation from the different stakeholders including governments, Official Development Aid (ODA), and households, many children in Africa fail to access education given the low enrolments and completion rates. The study sought to assess the use of education funding for education outcomes in Africa. It identified strategies and came up with policy recommendations to improve school outcomes. The study used a secondary research method by extracting data from World Bank and UNESCO data sets relating to the key study variables from 2010 – 2024 for 54 countries. A Fixed Effect Regression Model (FERM) was used to establish relationships. Thematic analysis was used to present the findings from the study. Findings indicate a growing budget allocation to education by governments though many countries missed out on the required UNESCO target of 25 per cent. Reduced funding by ODA, and increased funding by the private sector. Increased government spending significantly improves enrolment and completion rates. Completing primary education strongly influences secondary school enrolment. In conclusion, commitment to meeting UNESCO's 25% budget target for education, reducing regional inequalities, subsidizing private education, and improving transitional programs enhances school outcomes. African countries should engage in innovative approaches. This creates equitable, accessible, and high-quality education systems, unlocking transformative power of education for sustainable development across the continent.