Unlocking economic growth and sustainable development in sub-Saharan Africa

• Published in: Heliyon 2024-06, Vol.10 (12), p.e33252, Article e33252
• Main Authors: Osei-Kusi, Frank, Wu, Ci Sheng, Tetteh, Stephen
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: education; Education quality; growth and development; Instrumental variables; Sub-Saharan Africa; sustainable development; Sustainable development goals; teachers
• ISSN: 2405-8440; 2405-8440
• DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e33252

This research analyzes the impact of education quality on GDP per capita and educational access, using instrumental variables (IV) models. The findings shed light on the potential of education investment to foster economic growth and development, highlighting the importance of targeted interventions, teacher training, and data-driven approaches to improve educational outcomes and reduce access disparities. Policymakers and international organizations can utilize these insights to devise strategies aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4) of ensuring inclusive and equitable education for all, potentially contributing to the achievement of this crucial goal. [Display omitted] •Analysis links education quality to GDP per capita using instrumental variables, highlighting economic benefits of investing in education.•Positive impact of education quality on GDP per capita supports investing in education for economic development.•Policy implications stress targeted interventions, teacher training, and data-driven decision-making for growth.•Robust dataset and instrumental variables approach address endogeneity, ensuring reliable causal estimates.•Governance is key to maximizing educational improvements' benefits for sustainable economic development.