Educational Spending Efficiency: A Comparative Analysis Using Data Envelopment Analysis and Malmquist Index

This study examines the efficiency and productivity of public education expenditure in 20 countries using Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) and the Malmquist Productivity Index over the period 2011–2023. Focusing on science and mathematics performance at the primary and lower-secondary levels, the results show that higher public spending does not necessarily lead to better educational outcomes, highlighting the importance of efficient resource allocation. The DEA estimates reveal substantial cross-country heterogeneity in efficiency, while the Malmquist results indicate positive total factor productivity growth across all countries, driven mainly by technical progress rather than efficiency catch-up. Countries such as Morocco, Japan, Turkey, and Iran exhibit sustained productivity improvements, particularly in 2019–2023. Persistent disparities in efficiency and productivity are closely associated with differences in education policies, governance, and socio-economic contexts. Overall, the findings stress the need for efficiency-oriented education reforms to enhance performance and promote sustainable growth.