Financing for equity in higher education

Introduction

1. Education resources to subnational governments

2. Education resources to institutions

3. Education resources to students

4. Support for students' living costs

 

Introduction

Key financing indicators (UIS Data)

In 2023, the gross enrolment ratio for tertiary education for both sexes was 10.38%. The initial government funding per tertiary student as a percentage of GDP per capita was 72.58% in 2013. There is no data for initial household funding per tertiary student as a percentage of GDP per capita.

Tuition-free status

Tuition is not free; however, at public institutions, it is significantly subsidised. For example, at the largest university, Marien Ngouabi, fees are  CFA 21,000 for undergraduate (c. EUR 35)

Governance

Tuition is not free; however, at public institutions, it is significantly subsidised. For example, at the largest university, Marien Ngouabi, fees are  CFA 21,000 for undergraduate (c. EUR 35)

 

1. Education resources to subnational governments

No mechanisms for funding subnational governments were found.

 

2. Education resources to institutions

Funding for private universities in the absence of public institutions

No mechanisms for funding subnational governments were found.

Allocation and equity

Government funds are distributed to the university through the state budget. No evidence was found of equity considerations.

 

3. Education resources to students

Admission for vulnerable groups

Government funds are distributed to the university through the state budget. No evidence was found of equity considerations.

Scholarships, grants and loans for vulnerable groups

A 1975 law sets out the framework for the payment of scholarships; however, in practice, current payments are governed by ministerial circulars and internal policies. Marien Ngouabi University is the country’s principal public university, enrolling 98 percent of all students in 2016, and it remains the main provider of tertiary education. The government awards scholarships to students at Marien Ngouabi University through the Directorate General of University Services and Social Affairs. Scholarship payments are linked to course registration fees.

 

4. Support for students’ living costs

Transportation

No evidence was found of support for transportation costs.

Accommodation

Some students are entitled to dormitory accommodation, which is managed by the Directorate General of University Services and Social Affairs.

Textbooks

No evidence of payments for textbooks was found.