Education in Sudan: Disparities in Enrollment, Attainment and Quality

This paper examines the state of education in Sudan, utilizing data from the Sudan Labor Market Panel Survey (SLMPS, 2022). It focuses on various education performance indicators, including enrollment rates, school progression and barriers to education. The paper highlights the disparities in educational enrollment, attainment and performance, across gender, geographic regions and family socioeconomic backgrounds. The analysis indicates remarkable progress in preschool education in Sudan in recent years, although notable disparities persist across different regions, locations and socioeconomic statuses. The results show that those residing in urban areas are more likely to enroll in education compared to their rural counterparts. Moreover, individuals belonging to affluent households with educated parents have a higher likelihood to enroll and complete higher education levels. The results also reveal noticeable disparities in enrollment and attainment across regions. Individuals residing in Darfur, Kordufan and Eastern regions exhibit lower levels of educational enrollment and attainment, compared to those living in Central region and Khartoum. The illiteracy rate in Sudan remains alarmingly high, especially among rural females living in poor households. Furthermore, the study indicates multiple barriers to accessing education, including the lack of schools, poverty, customs and traditions. Female students predominantly discontinued their education due to marriage, parental preferences, school fees and cultural norms. Male students dropped out of school primarily because they needed to support their families. Finally, the paper ends with some policy recommendations aimed at enhancing access to education and reducing educational disparities in Sudan.