IPA's work in primary data collection often gives a unique window into new and emerging trends. Similarly, ongoing conversations with policymakers and practitioners help to identify important evidence gaps and areas where more research and data are needed. In the case of gender gaps in education, IPA has seen this issue highlighted from both perspectives. Policymakers and researchers alike are grappling with the unique and persistent challenges facing girls, along with increased recognition that in many contexts, learning levels are lower for boys.

IPA hosted a webinar on Gender Gaps in Education, held online via Zoom on Wednesday, February 14, 2024 from 9:00-10:30AM EST. IPA’s Education Program Director, Sarah Kabay, and Associate Director for Policy, Victoria Kiasyo Isika, led the webinar and presented their working paper, "Gender and the return to school in Kenya." Rebecca Thornton, Professor of Economics at the Hankamer School of Business at Baylor University, presented her paper, "Boys lagging behind: Unpacking gender differences in academic achievement across East Africa." Laura Gregory, Senior Education Specialist at the World Bank, presented her report, "Educational Underachievement Among Boys and Men."

Finally, policymakers from Kenya and Zambia discussed these research findings and related them to their own observations and work on the issue of gender in education.
 

Speakers

• Sarah Kabay, Innovations for Poverty Action

• Victoria Kiasyo Isika, Innovations for Poverty Action

• Rebecca Thornton, Hankamer School of Business at Baylor University

• Laura Gregory, World Bank