This is a synthesis of UNICEF Innocenti’s research on education. It shows data from over 167,000 African schools and identifies the most effective ways to optimize current investments in education across the continent. The analysis examines:
Workforce priorities - Evidence shows teacher deployment and support can matter more than numbers alone. Key findings highlight the importance of equitable distribution and ongoing pedagogical training, particularly in rural areas.
Curriculum and pedagogy - Protecting instructional time and access to appropriate teaching and learning materials, including to support mother tongue instruction, show links to better learning outcomes.
Strategic infrastructure - Targeted facility improvements to support effective instructional approaches can boost attendance and learning, particularly through expanding existing school capacity and providing basic amenities like electricity and WASH facilities.
The research provides practical guidance for governments to optimize education spending while promoting equity and efficiency.
