Self-Perpetuation of Gender Inequality in Education and Economic Growth: An Empirical Study Applied to CEMAC Countries

Abstract

The global objective of the paper is to analyze the impact of gender inequality in education on economic growth in the CEMAC countries for the period 1971-2014. In order to present the potential of the approach, two themes are examined: the self-perpetuation of gender inequality and the effect on economic growth. In this context, we use a simultaneous equations model with error components. The results suggest that there is self-perpetuation of gender inequality. The effects of the inequalities in education on economic growth are direct and indirect through public investment, labor market and political instability. Therefore, the CEMAC countries must increase their public expenditure on education system and reduce gender inequality in labor market for better reducing gender inequality in education, and so to promote economic growth. Political stability is also important for fighting against gender inequality in education.