Comparative Evaluation of Education Expenditures in Türkiye and Pisa Results in 2022

Abstract

Education is a crucial driver of human capital, economic growth, and social development, transmitting cultural values and shaping societal attitudes. Recognized as a quasi-public good, education requires both public and private funding, with the public sector ensuring the provision of its broad societal benefits. However, efficient allocation and utilization of education budgets are pivotal, as expenditure alone does not guarantee improved outcomes. This study conducts a comparative analysis of Türkiye’s education expenditures, evaluating total spending, budget shares, and GDP proportions against the top ten OECD countries that performed best in the 2022 PISA rankings. The findings reveal that Türkiye’s education spending remains below the OECD average, with particularly low preschool participation rates. Despite this, Türkiye performs relatively well in science compared to its expenditure level, indicating efficiency gains in certain areas. By focusing not only on spending levels but also on efficiency in resource use, the study contributes to understanding how financial and structural factors jointly influence educational performance. The paper concludes with targeted policy implications—emphasizing expansion of preschool education, improved retention at the upper-secondary level, and enhanced public investment efficiency—to strengthen long-term educational outcomes and equity in Türkiye.

Keywords

• Education Expenditures
• Efficiency
• PISA Results

Comparative Evaluation of Education Expenditures in Türkiye and 2022 Pisa Results

Abstract

Education is a crucial driver of human capital, economic growth, and social development, transmitting cultural values and shaping societal attitudes. Recognized as a quasi-public good, education requires both public and private funding, with the public sector ensuring the provision of its broad societal benefits. However, efficient allocation and utilization of education budgets are pivotal, as expenditure alone does not guarantee improved outcomes. This study conducts a comparative analysis of Türkiye’s education expenditures, evaluating total spending, budget shares, and GDP proportions against the top ten OECD countries that performed best in the 2022 PISA rankings. The findings reveal that Türkiye’s education spending remains below the OECD average, with particularly low preschool participation rates. Despite this, Türkiye performs relatively well in science compared to its expenditure level, indicating efficiency gains in certain areas. By focusing not only on spending levels but also on efficiency in resource use, the study contributes to understanding how financial and structural factors jointly influence educational performance. The paper concludes with targeted policy implications—emphasizing expansion of preschool education, improved retention at the upper-secondary level, and enhanced public investment efficiency—to strengthen long-term educational outcomes and equity in Türkiye.

Keywords

• Education Expenditures
• Efficiency
• PISA Results

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