The Impact of School Infrastructure on Academic Performance in Cameroon: Empirical Evidence From Cameroon
Article Sidebar
-
School Infrastructure, Academic Performance, Primary Education, Cameroon, Educational Resources, Policy Implications, Decentralization
Abstract
This study examines the impact of school infrastructure on pupils' academic performance in Cameroon, addressing concerns over persistently low schooling rates and educational outcomes in primary schools. Using cross-sectional secondary data from the PASEC survey conducted across ten Francophone African countries, covering 31,213 pupils from 671 schools in Cameroon. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and robust Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression. The findings reveal that school infrastructure has a significant positive effect on pupils’ academic performance, suggesting that improvements in classroom conditions, access to educational resources, and overall school facilities correlate with better academic outcomes. Additionally, several control variables, including electricity at home, parental involvement in education, access to study guides, and the availability of basic learning materials, also show a positive relationship with academic performance. However, certain factors, such as school canteens, catch-up lessons, and WiFi access at home, exhibit unexpected negative effects on pupils' performance, indicating potential distractions or inefficiencies in their implementation. The study concludes that investment in school infrastructure is crucial for enhancing educational quality in Cameroon. It emphasizes the need for targeted interventions focusing on classroom construction, the provision of teaching materials, and inclusive infrastructure to support diverse student needs. From a policy perspective, the Cameroonian government should address urban-rural disparities through decentralization, ensuring that local authorities play an active role in school infrastructure development. The findings suggest that while digitalization is not yet a priority, fundamental infrastructure improvements, such as classrooms, desks, potable water, and libraries, should be prioritized to create a more conducive learning environment.
Full text article
References
Agyei, E. A., Annim, S. K., Acquah, B. Y. S., Sebu, J., & Agyei, S. K. (2024). Education infrastructure inequality and academic performance in Ghana. Heliyon, 10(14), 1-25. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e34041
Alma, M. A. (2022). Parental involvement as a protective factor in academic achievement among socio-economically disadvantaged students. Journal of Educational Psychology, 114(2), 342–356.
Ann-Katrinvan, K. (2018). The importance of textbooks in educational research: A review. Educational Research Review, 24, 84–100. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.edurev.2018.03.003
Astin, A. W. (1999). Student involvement: A developmental theory for higher education. Journal of College Student Development, 40(5), 518–529.
Awudu, R. (2014). The effects of school infrastructure on pupils' academic performance in the Tamale Metropolis (Doctoral dissertation). University of Development Studies. Retrieved from UDS Institutional Repository.
Baker, D., & Letendre, G. (2005). National differences, global similarities: World culture and the future of schooling. Stanford University Press. https://doi.org/10.1515/9781503624870
Bandura, A. (1977). Social learning theory. Englewood Cliffs, NJ: Prentice Hall.
Barrie, J. (2023). The role of repetition in building student confidence and academic success. Journal of Educational Psychology, 115(3), 321–335.
Barro, R. J. (1991). Economic growth in a cross-section of countries. The Quarterly Journal of Economics, 106(2), 407–443. https://doi.org/10.2307/2937943
Biddle, B. J., & Berliner, D. C. (2002). Small class size and its effects. Educational Leadership, 59(5), 12–23. Retrieved from ERIC database (EJ640898).
Cecario, J., et al. (2015). Factors contributing to poor academic performance in secondary schools in Malawi. African Educational Research Journal, 3(2), 123–132.
Chanda, M. (2024). The effects of catch-up lessons implementation on education: Challenges and opportunities. Zambian Journal of Educational Management, 9(1), 78–95.
Chapman, E. (2005). The impact of the Internet on student learning: A review of the literature. International Journal of Instructional Media, 32(3), 243–251.
Chen, M., Zhao, L., & Wang, T. (2019). The impact of digital infrastructure on student achievement in low-income neighborhoods. International Journal of Educational Technology, 12(1), 75–92.
Chen, R., Wang, S., & Zhao, Y. (2019). The digital divide and its implications for academic performance in low-income schools. Educational Technology and Society, 22(1), 34–45.
Cohen, J., McCabe, E. M., Michelli, N. M., & Pickeral, T. (2009). School climate: Research, policy, practice, and teacher education. Teachers College Record, 111(1), 180–213. https://doi.org/10.1177/016146810911100108
Coleman, J. S. (1988). Social capital in the creation of human capital. American Journal of Sociology, 94(Supplement), S95–S120. https://doi.org/10.1086/228943
Comunian, A. L., Gielen, U. P., & Adams, G. R. (2020). Parental involvement and academic achievement: A cross-cultural study. International Journal of Psychology, 55(3), 456–465.
Conant, J. B. (1959). The American high school today: A first report to interested citizens. McGraw-Hill. https://doi.org/10.1037/13171-000
Cornell, D. (2010). School climate as a factor in student achievement and teacher retention. Educational Research Journal, 22(3), 33–47.
Cornell, T. (2010). Nurturing environments: Foundations of effective learning. International Review of Educational Psychology, 12(2), 89–101.
Dhiman, P. (2021). Impact of technology on student self-discipline and learning outcomes. Journal of Educational Technology & Society, 24(1), 56–65.
Dorji, T., & Wangchuk, D. (2021). Exploring the relationship between nutrition and academic learning among students of Samtse College of Education. Bhutan Journal of Research & Development, 10(1), 56–70.
Fullan, M. (2007). The new meaning of educational change (4th ed.). Teachers College Press.
Gentili, D., Bortolini, M., & Crippa, B. (2020). Parental involvement and students' academic achievement: A systematic review. Educational Research Review, 31, 100365.
Hanushek, E. A., & Woessmann, L. (2007). The role of education quality in economic growth. World Bank Policy Research Working Paper 4122. https://doi.org/10.1596/1813-9450-4122
Henderson, A. T., & Mapp, K. L. (2002). A new wave of evidence: The impact of school, family, and community connections on student achievement. Southwest Educational Development Laboratory.
Kasigo, B., Matsui, H., & Robertson, P. (2017). The unintended consequences of WiFi availability in schools: A study on student engagement and performance. Technology and Learning Journal, 10(2), 112–130.
Kasigo, T., Mphahlele, L., & Ndlovu, M. (2017). The impact of WiFi exposure on student learning outcomes. South African Journal of Education, 37(1), 56–72.
Kristy, B., & Thompson, S. (2023). Adherence to state canteen menu guidelines and its impact on student health. Australian Journal of Nutrition and Dietetics, 80(1), 45–52.
Kum, A. B. (2020). The nexus between school infrastructure and quality education: An analysis of primary schools in Cameroon. International Journal of Economics, Commerce, and Management, 8(2), 71–82.
Land, M. (2013). Inclusive learning environments: The role of infrastructure in supporting students with disabilities. International Journal of Special Education, 28(1), 89–104.
Land, S. M. (2013). Structuring inclusive classroom infrastructures to support students with disabilities. Journal of Special Education Practices, 20(3), 58–72.
Legg, C., & Jon, P. (2024). The effects of screen time and internet access on cognitive development in children. Cognitive Psychology and Education, 19(2), 200–215.
Legg, J., & Jon, P. (2024). Screen time and cognitive development in children: A review of recent findings. Pediatrics & Education Journal, 18(2), 33–48.
Liao, H., Li, S., & Zhang, J. (2019). The impact of parental involvement on children's academic achievement in China: A meta-analysis. Educational Studies, 45(6), 726–743.
Mick, C. (2011). School environment and student well-being: A critical review. Learning Environments Research, 14(1), 59–77. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10984-011-9089-8
MINEDUB. (2022). Annual report on education in Cameroon. Ministry of Basic Education, Government of Cameroon.
Miora, R., & Andrianarisoa, L. (2024). School canteen program and school performance in Madagascar: Evidence from PASEC survey data. Madagascar Economic Review, 5(2), 112–130.
Mundy, K., & Haggarty, L. (2007). Comparative and international education: Issues for teachers. Routledge.
Nehmood, A., & Taswir, T. (2013). The effects of excessive technology use on student cognition. Journal of Digital Education, 29(4), 101–120.
Nehmood, T., & Taswir, S. (2013). Internet addiction and academic performance: A cross-sectional study among high school students. Journal of Adolescent Health Research, 15(4), 239–256.
OECD. (2020). Education at a glance 2020: OECD indicators. OECD Publishing. https://doi.org/10.1787/69096873-en
Oni, A. A. (1992). Facilities management and organization effectiveness: The strategic role. Facilities, 10(11/12), 23–29. https://doi.org/10.1108/EUM0000000002951
Onyekwellu, M. C. (2002). Improving the quality of secondary education through parental involvement in the provision of facilities in schools. Journal of Educational Foundations, 6(1–2), 1–6.
Owusu, G., & Mariwah, S. (2017). The role of school infrastructure in student motivation and academic success. African Journal of Education Studies, 9(1), 57–74.
Owusu, S. E., & Mariwah, S. (2017). An assessment of school infrastructure in Ghana: Implications for achieving quality education. International Journal of Educational Development, 54, 1–10. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijedudev.2017.03.003
Patel, R., Singh, M., & Kumar, D. (2020). The impact of inadequate school infrastructure on student outcomes in developing countries. International Journal of Educational Development, 35(3), 150–165.
Patel, R., Singh, T., & Kumar, P. (2020). School infrastructure and its effect on academic performance in under-resourced settings: A case study of primary schools in rural regions. International Journal of Education and Development, 8(2), 45–67.
Programme d'Analyse des Systèmes Éducatifs de la CONFEMEN (PASEC). (2016). Performances du système éducatif camerounais: Compétences et facteurs de réussite au primaire. Conférence des ministres de l'Éducation des États et gouvernements de la Francophonie. Retrieved from learningportal.iiep.unesco.org
Runyi, O. P., & Nwakuya, M. T. (2022). A review of ordinary least squares (OLS) method for linear regression model. International Journal of Research and Innovation in Applied Science, 7(1), 1–6.
Salau, A. S. (2001). School environment and academic achievement of senior secondary school students in Lagos State. The Nigerian Journal of Guidance and Counselling, 6(1), 40–47.
Silas, M., & Mwila, J. (2024). Effects of technology adaptation on students' discipline in public secondary schools in Nyamagana. African Journal of Educational Studies, 12(1), 45–67.
Smith, A. (2018). Longitudinal analysis of school infrastructure and its effects on academic performance in suburban districts. Educational Infrastructure Review, 9(1), 98–115.
Smith, J. (2018). School infrastructure and student achievement: Evidence from suburban school districts. American Journal of Education Policy, 24(4), 112–129.
Topor, D. R., Keane, S. P., Shelton, T. L., & Calkins, S. D. (2010). Parent involvement and student academic performance: A multiple mediational analysis. Journal of Prevention & Intervention in the Community, 38(3), 183–197. https://doi.org/10.1080/10852352.2010.486297
Umoh, G. A. (2006). Classroom environment and students' academic performance in secondary schools in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Journal of Educational Foundations, 6(1–2), 45–52.
UNESCO. (2016). The impact of school environment on student learning outcomes: A global analysis. UNESCO Education Research Report.
UNESCO. (2016). Education for people and planet: Creating sustainable futures for all (Global Education Monitoring Report 2016). Retrieved from http://unesdoc.unesco.org/images/0024/002457/245752E.pdf
UNICEF. (2018). The role of school meals in enhancing student performance and attendance: A review of global case studies. UNICEF Research Brief.
UNICEF. (2018). WASH in schools: Global baseline report 2018. Retrieved from https://www.unicef.org/wash/files/UNICEF_WASH_in_Schools_Global_Baseline_Report_2018.pdf
Wang, Y., Chen, X., & Zhang, L. (2020). The role of school infrastructure in rural education: Evidence from China. Rural Education Development Journal, 11(2), 78–94.
Wang, Y., Li, X., & Zhou, Q. (2020). The role of school infrastructure in bridging the educational resource gap in rural settings. Education and Rural Development Studies, 15(4), 233–250.
Wong, M., Taylor, C., & Green, H. (2017). Early childhood education infrastructure and school readiness: A longitudinal analysis. Early Childhood Research Quarterly, 32(1), 58–75.
Wong, M., Tran, L., & Brown, A. (2017). Early childhood education infrastructure: The cornerstone of school readiness. Journal of Early Childhood Education and Development, 5(2), 76–91.
Yang, J., Chen, H., & Nguyen, L. T. (2019). Culturally inclusive school infrastructure and its impact on student outcomes in multicultural schools. Journal of Educational Research and Multicultural Studies, 7(3), 112–127.
Yang, R., Williams, D., & Lopez, M. (2019). Multicultural education and school infrastructure: Supporting diverse learning environments. Journal of Multicultural Education, 15(3), 133–149.
Yangambi, K. (2024). School infrastructure and academic performance in public schools: A study in Kinshasa-Ngaliema. Journal of Educational Research in Africa, 12(2), 101–119.
Yangambi, T. (2024). The impact of school infrastructure on students' learning and performance: A case study of public schools in developing countries. Educational Policy and Practice Journal, 18(1), 41–60.
Authors
Copyright (c) 2025 Njong Mom Aloysius, Ndamsa Dickson Thomas, Abety Paul, Nguena Christian-Lambert (Author)
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Copyright / Open Access Policy: This journal provides immediate free open access and is distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution License (CC BY). This is an open-access journal, which means readers can access it freely. Readers may read, download, copy, distribute, print, search, or link to the full texts of the articles for any lawful purpose without seeking prior permission from the publisher or author. This is consistent with the Budapest Open Access Initiative's (BOAI) definition of open access.
Article Details
How to Cite
Similar Articles
- Syeda Anam Hassan, Inayatul Haq, Alamzeb Aamir, Ihtisham ul Haq, Khalid Zaman, Exploring How Income Inequality, Education, and Policy Shape Energy Access Disparities in Southeast Asia , Innovation Economics Frontiers: Vol. 28 No. 2 (2025)
- Anthony Orji, Jovita Nneka Uwakwe, Onyinye Imelda Anthony-Orji, Jonathan Emenike Ogbuabor, Juliana Ngozi Obiorah, Foreign Direct Investment, Capital Flows, and Sectoral Growth in Nigeria: A Comparative Analysis of Agriculture and Manufacturing , Innovation Economics Frontiers: Vol. 28 No. 2 (2025)
- Anthony Orji, Elis Moses Onoh, Onyinye Imelda Anthony-Orji, Jonathan Emenike Ogbuabor, Oluchi Okoro, Joseph Fanen Akpesue, Tourism, Migration, And Productive Capacity Growth In Sub-Saharan Africa , Innovation Economics Frontiers: Vol. 28 No. 2 (2025)
- Ali Raza, Hani Na’el Al- Abdallat , Ahsan-ul-Haq Shaikh, Cash Management: A Key Driver of Performance for Conventional Banks in Pakistan , Innovation Economics Frontiers: Vol. 26 No. 1 (2023)
- Ali Raza, Turgut Tursoy, Sadam Ali Balal, Sustainable Working Capital and Financial Performance in Cement Industry of Pakistan: An OLS Approach* , Innovation Economics Frontiers: Vol. 26 No. 1 (2023)
- Shuhua Zhang, Impact of Urban Digital Economy on ESG Performance: Do Technological and Business Model Innovation Matter , Innovation Economics Frontiers: Vol. 28 No. 1 (2025)
- Fentahun Admassu Yayeh, From Peg to Float: Economic and Political Implications of the Ethiopian Birr Flotation , Innovation Economics Frontiers: Vol. 28 No. 1 (2025)
You may also start an advanced similarity search for this article.