Impact of Remittance on Household Educational Outcomes: A Case Study for The Gambia

Abstract

This study examines how foreign remittances affect educational outcomes in Gambian households, highlighting the significant role of remittance inflows in enhancing household welfare and fostering educational development. The study utilizes the Gambia 2015 Integrated Household Survey (GIHS) data. It uses an Ordered Probit Model to assess remittances' effect on educational outcomes. The findings show that remittances have a critical role in enhancing educational attainment by reducing financial pressures, particularly at the secondary and tertiary education levels, by 1.24% and 6,97% points, respectively. However, the impacts differ based on various household attributes, such as gender, urban or rural setting, and the household head's educational attainment. The findings highlight the significance of implementing policies that utilize remittance flows to enhance educational opportunities, including expanding financial inclusion, reducing remittance transfer costs, and promoting targeted investments in education. This study adds to the continuing conversation about migration, economic access, and education in The Gambia by offering actual data on the connection between remittances and human capital development. It provides essential insights for policymakers, scholars, and financial institutions. Keywords: Remittance, Education level completed, Household, Ordered Probit Model, Human Capital, The Gambia.

Date of Award	2025
Original language	American English
Awarding Institution	HBKU College of Public Policy