School Choice and Learning Outcomes in Two States in North Nigeria

This study compares learning outcomes across different school types in Bauchi and Kaduna states in northern Nigeria, where many children attend unrecognized Quranic, Islamic, or homeschooling programs. Children across all school types show below-average performance in literacy and numeracy. Private schools show slightly better outcomes in numeracy and literacy than public schools, but perform similarly in Hausa language and socio-emotional skills once family background is accounted for. Parents prefer private schools and report greater satisfaction with them.

Key points

• Most surveyed children in the two states are enrolled in some form of education, including unrecognized Quranic, Islamic schools, and banned homeschooling
• Learning outcomes are below average across all school sectors
• Privately managed schools show a slight advantage over publicly managed schools in numeracy and literacy, but not in Hausa language or socio-emotional tests after controlling for background
• Private schools are associated with increased parental satisfaction and greater parental preference
• The study recommends the government officially recognize non-formal education providers

Limitations

The document does not specify the sample size, age groups of children studied, or the specific measures used for socio-emotional outcomes. It is unclear whether the study controls for other confounding variables beyond family background.