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IFE Research Papers
IFE Research Papers
While some research and debate around innovative approaches to increasing financing for the education sector has existed since 2010, until recently most innovative mechanisms within the education sector have remained in the conceptual or pilot phase. The IFE Research Papers provide results of research projects on this topic that examine the conceptualisation and implementation of various innovative financing approaches within the education sector.
2025
Who Gets in and Who’s Left Out? Determinants of Selection in a Social Lending Scheme for Higher Education in Kenya
In Sub-Saharan Africa and other low- and middle-income countries, obstacles to securing education financing often hinder students from accessing post-secondary education (Wanti, Wesselink, & Biemans, 2022). In Kenya, where financial barriers often impede students from pursuing higher education (Oketch, 2022), innovative financing initiatives from private sector actors, such as the Lending for Education in Africa Partnership (LEAP), have emerged as a complementary solution to government financing schemes. This paper sheds light on the factors influencing student selection for LEAP financing, ultimately aiming to contribute to the enhancement of equitable access to financial aid for tertiary education.
2024
Evidence Review of Outcomes-Based Finance for Early Childhood Care and Education
This evidence review takes stock of 22 documented, existing experiences of OBF4ECCE by surfacing, collating, and analysing available documents. Bilateral interviews, the convening of expert stakeholders, and the collective experience of the research team supplement the analysis. The review presents existing evidence and identifies substantial gaps in existing knowledge to inform the design of future programmes and research.
Practice Note: Measuring Outcomes in Outcomes-Based Financing for Early Childhood Care and Education
This practice note provides insights into the prominent issues and important considerations that need to be made for measurement in outcomes-based financing (OBF). It draws upon existing experience from OBF4ECCE projects at various stages of development, from design to implementation and completion.
2021
Results-based financing in education for sub-national government and school administrators: A conceptual framework and practical recommendations
The study contributes to the global evidence base on Results-based Financing (RBF) and provides lessons on the use of RBF in the meso-level of the education sector, as well as recommendations for strengthening the link between results and funding. Ultimately, it is part of NORRAG’s effort to build empirical evidence on what works and what does not work in using innovative financing for improving equitable and inclusive quality education.
2020
Innovative financing for education: A systematic literature review
The NORRAG team conducted a comprehensive literature review of both grey and academic literature on IFE, which included over 150 individual articles. The publication includes an analysis of the types of mechanisms that have been researched, disciplinary approaches, definitions, rationales, along with a discussion on the identified benefits and challenges. A typology and description of the most prevalent innovative financing mechanisms discussed in education will also be published.