The efficiency of public spending on higher education
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31637/epsir-2026-2263Keywords:
efficiency, effectiveness, higher education, spending, quality of spending, teachers, sustainability, technologyAbstract
Introduction: This article provides a comprehensive literature review on the efficiency of public spending on higher education, highlighting its key role in the socio-economic and cultural development of countries. Methodology: A critical analysis of empirical and theoretical studies is carried out, covering different methodological approaches and focusing on common challenges in Latin America and the Caribbean, with special attention to the case of Ecuador. Results: The findings highlight the need for robust data, varied evaluation methods and strategic financial management to improve the quality, equity and efficiency of education spending. Discussion: Structural obstacles such as bureaucratisation, underinvestment in the teaching profession and the urgency of transforming higher education through greater accountability, inclusion, interdisciplinarity and technological modernisation are identified. Conclusions: The study provides an overview of the current state of knowledge, identifies gaps in the literature and drives future lines of research aimed at optimising the use of public resources, ensuring the sustainability of the system and raising the quality of higher education.
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