Gender Inequalities in the Ethiopian Education System: Past Trends and Current Status

Abstract

This article reviews empirical research and theoretical perspectives on gender inequalities in educational performance and attainment from primary to higher education. Ethiopia has made enormous strides forward in improving access of boys and girls to education at all levels, and in promoting gender equality within the education system. Yet female students continue to lag behind in educational achievement and access, particularly at the secondary and tertiary levels, where girls‘ enrolment, completion and achievement rates are lower. Despite an enabling policy environment, a number of social and institutional barriers continue to prevent girls and young women from attending schools and universities and from performing as well as their male classmates. The prioritization of science and technology within the educational and development policies of the country may exclude female students unless additional actions are taken to promote their participation in these fields. Addressing gender equality in the education system, with a focus on improving girls‘ educational performance and outcomes, is crucial to meeting Ethiopia‘s development goals and to protecting women‘s rights.