Details
- Publication date
- 30 September 2019
- Author
- European Expert Network on Economics of Education (EENEE)
- Geographical scope
- European Union
- Level of education focus
- Adult education
- Higher education
- School education
- Thematic areas covered
- Education-to-work transitions, education and labour market
- Educational attainment and participation in education
- Educational effectiveness and efficiency
- Investment in education, economic impact of education
- Skills development
Description
This report examines the private and social returns to education globally, analyzing how different levels of schooling impact earnings and broader societal benefits. It finds that the returns to education remain high worldwide, with private returns averaging around 9% per additional year of schooling. Among different levels, returns to primary education are still strong in low-income countries, while tertiary education yields the highest returns in high-income countries.
The study also emphasizes that returns are higher for women than for men, highlighting the value of investing in female education. Social returns—those benefiting society at large—also remain positive, though slightly lower than private ones.
The report discusses methodological challenges and variability across regions but confirms a consistent global pattern: education is a sound investment. Policymakers are urged to prioritize education funding and improve access and quality, especially in underserved populations.
Author
George Psacharopoulos
Cite as
George Psacharopoulos, (2019). 'Developments in the rates of early leavers from education and training (ELET)', EENEE Ad hoc Report 3, 2019
