Interplay of public and private educational spending: Macroeconomic implications
Abstract
This paper investigates the implications of the collaboration between public and private human capital investments on GDP per capita and income inequality. It extends an overlapping generations model with heterogeneous agents and endogenous growth that allows for educational investments through public and private sources. The theory is empirically evaluated with two cross-country dynamic panel data models. A key finding suggests that an increasing gap between public and private education investment, with the public remaining larger than private, significantly boosts GDP per capita while reducing income inequality. The paper highlights the importance of the nuanced dynamics between various educational funding mechanisms and their broader economic and social outcomes.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Fiscal Policy and Economic Growth
Economic Growth and Productivity
Intergenerational and Educational Inequality Studies
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Structural Change and Economic Dynamics
- Volume
- 80
- Pages
- 53–64
- Publication date
- 1 July 2026
- Language
- EN