The role of education for alleviating poverty incidence in Egypt: urban-rural analysis

Abstract

Purpose – This study explores the relevance of education in reducing poverty in Egypt's rural and urban areas. Design/methodology/approach – The study applies the logistic model to Analyse Household Income Expenditure survey data. Findings – The results indicate that spending on education in urban regions is higher than in rural areas. Second, the percentage of illiteracy in rural areas is higher than in urban areas. Third, educational spending is significantly inversely related to poverty across various geographical regions of Egypt. Fourthly, the more educated the head of the family is, the less likely the family is to fall into poverty. Finally, the potential for education to alleviate poverty in rural areas is more significant than in urban regions of Egypt. Research limitations/implications – The suggested approach should be applied on data from different countries. Practical implications – The paper suggests worthy policy recommendations for policy makers in Egypt. Social implications – Results of the study worthy as it emphases the role of education in the society. Originality/value – Based on microdata analysis, the study compares the potential role of education in combating poverty in Egypt's urban and rural areas. Thus, it can be used as a decision-support tool for policymakers.