Title: Improving women's education in sub-Saharan Africa : a review of the literature
Abstract: This paper reviews studies published since 1980 on factors affecting the participation of females in formal education. The aim is to identify factors, summarize strategies and suggest policies that could improve female education in sub - Saharan Africa. Markedly different patterns of enrollment are evident from country to country. Countries with both low and high levels of enrollment showed evidence of both equitable and inequitable female participation. Background characteristics such as socioeconomic status, parental education, region of residence and religion appear more important for girls than boys. Dropping out results from individual, familial and institutional decisions. Possible strategies for improving female participation include : a) increasing school places; b) raising number of female teachers; c) addressing teacher attitudes; d) widening curriculum options for girls; and e) reducing the demand for child labor. Another recommendation includes avoidance of administrative and fiscal policies that negatively affect opportunities for female schooling. Finally, more research is needed in those countries not represented in the studies reviewed, as well as a more detailed examination of the process through which girls in all countries are put at an educational disadvantage.
Publication Year: 1989
Publication Date: 1989-05-31
Language: en
Type: review
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Cited By Count: 24
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