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Education, Institutions, and Investment as Determinants of Economic Growth in Central Asia and the Caucasus: A Panel Data Analysis

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  • Arsen Tleppayev

    (Faculty of Economics and Entrepreneurship, Kazakh-German University, Almaty 050010, Kazakhstan)

  • Saule Zeinolla

    (Faculty of Economics and Entrepreneurship, Kazakh-German University, Almaty 050010, Kazakhstan)

  • Dinara Tyulyubayeva

    (Faculty of Economics and Entrepreneurship, Kazakh-German University, Almaty 050010, Kazakhstan)

  • Assel Aben

    (Economic Research Department, The Kazakhstan Institute for Strategic Studies Under the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Astana 020000, Kazakhstan)

Abstract

Economic growth and development are key to societal well-being, yet emerging economies in Central Asia and the Caucasus face challenges such as labor market inefficiencies, uneven capital distribution, and weak institutions. This study examines the impact of education, institutional quality, capital investment, and labor force dynamics on economic growth in the region from 2010 to 2023. Using panel data analysis, including unit root tests, cointegration tests (Pedroni and Kao), and FMOLS/DOLS estimation, the findings reveal that while education and capital investment drive growth, institutional factors show mixed effects. Higher tertiary education enrollment correlates with long-term economic expansion, whereas weak governance and corruption hinder progress. This study contributes to the literature by providing empirical evidence on education and institutional roles in economic performance, offering policy insights for sustainable growth. The results highlight the need for governance reforms, education quality improvements, and labor market adaptability to enhance economic potential.

Suggested Citation

  • Arsen Tleppayev & Saule Zeinolla & Dinara Tyulyubayeva & Assel Aben, 2025. "Education, Institutions, and Investment as Determinants of Economic Growth in Central Asia and the Caucasus: A Panel Data Analysis," Economies, MDPI, vol. 13(3), pages 1-19, March.
  • Handle: RePEc:gam:jecomi:v:13:y:2025:i:3:p:78-:d:1614043
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    2. Hamit-Haggar, Mahamat, 2012. "Greenhouse gas emissions, energy consumption and economic growth: A panel cointegration analysis from Canadian industrial sector perspective," Energy Economics, Elsevier, vol. 34(1), pages 358-364.
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