Does growth in private schooling contribute to Education for All? Evidence from a longitudinal, two cohort study in Andhra Pradesh, India

This paper informs debates about the potential role for low-fee private schooling in achieving Education for All goals in India. It reports Young Lives’ longitudinal data for two cohorts (2906 children) in the state of Andhra Pradesh. Eight year olds uptake of private schooling increased from 24 per cent (children born in 1994–5) to 44 per cent (children born in 2001–2). Children from rural areas, lower socioeconomic backgrounds and girls continue to be under represented. While some access gaps decreased, the gender gap seems to be widening. Evidence on risks to equity strengthen the case for an effectively regulated private sector, along with reforms to government sector schools.

► Young Lives research in Andhra Pradesh, India is tracking 3000 children over 15 years.
► Uptake of private schooling by eight years old increased from 24 per cent to 44 per cent between 2002 and 2009.
► Children from rural areas, lower socioeconomic backgrounds and girls continue to be under-represented.
► While some access gaps decreased, the gender gap seems to be widening.
► Evidence on risks to equity strengthen the case for effective reform of private and government schools.