The role of education in modulating the effect of ICT on governance in Africa.

Abstract

This study investigates the role of education in modulating the effect of ICT on governance in 53 African countries between 2002 and 2020. The Two-Step System Generalized Method of Moment (GMM) strategy is adopted to address the potential endogeneity problem. Governance is computed as a composite index that encompasses the six indicators of the Worldwide Governance Indicators (Control of corruption, rule of law, political stability, regulatory quality, government effectiveness, and voice and accountability). ICT is measured by the number of individuals using the internet, mobile cellular subscribers and fixed broadband subscription. The findings of the study reveal that the quality of governance in Africa is enhanced by growth in ICT. The findings further indicate that the interaction between ICT and education procure positive net effects on governance. In addition, we observed that ICT still enhances the quality of governance in African countries that have adopted the French civil law and the British common law system. The study suggests the design of policies for enhancing e-governance and ICT in African institutions, and are recommended to be used as part of the school curriculum for quality management.