1 Department of Humanities and Social Sciences, Chreso University, Lusaka, Zambia.
2 Humanities and Social Sciences, School of Education, Unicaf University, Lusaka, Zambia.
3 Department of ECE and Primary Education, Rockview University, Lusaka, Zambia.
4 School of Health Sciences, Rockview University, Lusaka, Zambia.
5 MS Quality Management Trainer, Superior University, Lahore, Pakistan.
Research Article
World Journal of Advanced Research and Reviews, 2024, 23(01), 2934-2946
Article DOI: 10.30574/wjarr.2024.23.1.2306
Received on 20 June 2024; revised on 28 July 2024; accepted on 30 July 2024
Overview: The debate between free education and quality education remains a critical issue in the global education landscape. This systematic analysis aimed to dissect the intricate relationship between the provision of free education and the assurance of quality education. While free education is often lauded for its role in increasing accessibility and promoting educational equity, concerns about the potential compromise in quality cannot be overlooked.
Body of Knowledge: The study’s analysis drew on a comprehensive review of existing literature, case studies, and empirical data from various countries that have implemented free education policies. Central to this analysis is the understanding that free education, though essential for fostering inclusivity, often faces challenges such as underfunding, overcrowded classrooms, and inadequate infrastructure. These issues can severely impact the quality of education delivered, resulting in poor learning outcomes and diminished educational standards.
Methods: The study engaged both the qualitative and quantitative methods and a descriptive research design that sampled 150 respondents; head teachers, teachers and learners from selected secondary schools in Lusaka district, Zambia. Data was obtained from the respondents by means of interviews and questionnaires. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the qualitative data whereas quantitative data were analyzed by the use of the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (version 26) and Microsoft Excel (version 16).
Results: The study’s analysis delves into the economic implications of free education. While it alleviates the financial burden on families, especially in low-income regions, the long-term sustainability of such policies is questioned. The study examined various funding models and the role of government expenditure in maintaining high educational standards without imposing direct costs on students.
Recommendation: The study therefore recommended for policymakers to adopt a holistic view, ensuring that the drive towards free education is matched with adequate resources, effective management, and a commitment to continuous improvement in educational standards.
Access; Affordability; Equity; Quality Education; Sustainability
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Chanda Chansa Thelma, Daniel L. Mpolomoka, Mwila Mwenda Gilbert, Daniel Monta Mulenga and Zohaib Hassan Sain. Free Education vs. Quality Education: A systematic analysis. World Journal of Advanced Research and Reviews, 2024, 23(1), 2934-2946. Article DOI: https://doi.org/10.30574/wjarr.2024.23.1.2306