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The returns to higher education and public employment

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  • Somani, Ravi

Abstract

This paper evaluates a rapid expansion in public universities in Ethiopia to estimate the returns to higher education in a low-income context. The empirical analysis exploits the geographical and time variation in the expansion. The estimates suggest that higher-education attainment almost doubles the probability of paid employment and almost doubles hourly wages. The returns are linked to occupational shifts to the public sector, which is characterized by attractive wages and demand for higher levels of education.

Suggested Citation

  • Somani, Ravi, 2021. "The returns to higher education and public employment," World Development, Elsevier, vol. 144(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:wdevel:v:144:y:2021:i:c:s0305750x21000838
    DOI: 10.1016/j.worlddev.2021.105471
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    Cited by:

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    2. Chassamboulli, Andri & Gomes, Pedro, 2023. "Public-sector employment, wages and education decisions," Labour Economics, Elsevier, vol. 82(C).

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