Information communication technologies strengthen the impact of education on economic growth in SAARC countries

Abstract The purpose of this study is to investigate the role of education and information and communication technologies (ICT) in fostering economic growth (EG) within South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) countries. Furthermore, the study investigated the moderating effect of ICT on the relationship between education and EG. The study used fixed and random effects estimation techniques to empirically examine the proposed hypotheses using panel data from SAARC countries. The results indicate that tertiary education has a more substantial impact on EG than primary and secondary education levels. The composite measure of education is positively associated with EG across SAARC countries. Furthermore, ICT is found to positively moderate the relationship between education and EG, confirming that the integration of ICT amplifies the growth-enhancing effects of education. This study offers novel empirical insights into how ICT can strengthen the education–growth nexus in developing regions.