Students and the Market for Schools in Haiti
Summary — This paper examines the unusual education system in Haiti, characterized by a largely non-public sector. It analyzes historical trends in school attainment, determinants of school attendance and fees, and the market structure of schooling, finding that household wealth is a major determinant of attendance.
Key Findings
- Haiti's education system is characterized by a dominant non-public sector.
- Household wealth is a major determinant of school attendance.
- School fees are a significant barrier to attendance for many Haitian families.
- Factors associated with higher education quality are associated with higher fees.
- Schools with a larger share of the local market charge more.
Full Description
This paper investigates the education system in Haiti, where the private sector plays a dominant role. It analyzes the historical evolution of school attainment since the 1930s, revealing a significant decline in the public school system and a corresponding expansion of the private sector. The study also examines the factors influencing school attendance, finding that household wealth, parental education, and school fees are key determinants. Furthermore, it analyzes the determinants of school fees and the market structure of schooling, highlighting the impact of school characteristics and market concentration on fee levels. The findings suggest that addressing poverty and strengthening the state's regulatory role are crucial for improving education access and quality in Haiti.