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Inequalities in labour market outcomes of school leavers: Does educational track matter?

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  • Emmanuel Adu Boahen

    (University of Energy and Natural Resources)

  • Kwadwo Opoku

    (University of Ghana)

Abstract

This paper uses propensity score matching to investigate the differences in labour market outcomes between graduates from general education and those from technical vocational education and training (TVET). The sixth and seventh waves of the Ghana living standard survey are pooled for analysis. Findings from the study suggest that graduates from TVET have weaker earnings compared to those from general education. The study shows that the average wage of graduates from TVET is 70% of that of graduates from general education. The study revealed that the wage advantages of general education over TVET education are only present for the group of individuals with tertiary education. We find that TVET education provides more labour market advantages than general education for individuals who cannot access tertiary education. Findings from the study point towards a widening of the wage gap between the two tracks of education over the life cycle.

Suggested Citation

  • Emmanuel Adu Boahen & Kwadwo Opoku, 2024. "Inequalities in labour market outcomes of school leavers: Does educational track matter?," Journal of Social and Economic Development, Springer;Institute for Social and Economic Change, vol. 26(1), pages 280-307, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:jsecdv:v:26:y:2024:i:1:d:10.1007_s40847-023-00264-x
    DOI: 10.1007/s40847-023-00264-x
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Karina Tessar & Pawel Cichecki & Ooko James Opiyo, 2025. "Perception, Motivation, and Career Alignment: A Study on Trainees’ Attitudes Toward Vocational Training Centers in Tana River County, Kenya," European Research Studies Journal, European Research Studies Journal, vol. 0(1), pages 1072-1084.

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    JEL classification:

    • J08 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - General - - - Labor Economics Policies

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