Scaling Access to Quality Tertiary Education Amidst Population Growth in Developing Countries

Abstract

This paper sought to examine the scaling access to tertiary education amidst population growth in developing countries. The study employed the mixed method approach with sequential explanatory strategy design. Quantitatively, 100 respondents were sampled with saturation point used to determine participants for the qualitative phase of the study. Data were collected using interview guide and questionnaire. Data were analyzed quantitatively using descriptive statistics and qualitatively using thematic analysis. The study found that scaling access to tertiary education in developing countries were largely due to the availability of scholarship schemes, expansion in tertiary institutions, availability of online and distance education option. They study also found that tertiary education gives a lot of gains developing countries some of which include economic growth and development, social cohesion and cultural diversity, improved overall quality of life and encourages citizens’ participation in decision making and governance of their countries. The study therefore recommended the need to expand tertiary institutions, institute more scholarship schemes, tertiary institute charging moderate and affordable tuitions fees so as to open access to more individuals.