Does Gender Parity in Higher Education Respond Asymmetrically to Remittances? Evidence from Morocco

Abstract This study examines the dynamic relationship between migrant remittances and gender parity in higher education in Morocco from 1975 to 2023. While existing studies primarily focus on the gendered impact of remittances on primary and secondary education in home countries, the effects on tertiary education remain largely unexplored. Furthermore, these studies often assume a symmetrical impact of remittances, which may not be the case. Using linear ARDL modelling, we demonstrate that remittances have a positive and long-term impact on gender parity in higher education in Morocco. This finding underscores the role of remittances in reducing gender inequality in higher education in Morocco. To explore potential asymmetries, we employed a nonlinear ARDL model, which revealed a short-run asymmetrical impact of remittances on parity in higher education. Our findings are robust to alternative variables and demonstrate the potential of remittances to enhance human development indicators in Morocco. Additionally, remittances serve as an effective tool for achieving sustainable development goals in Morocco.