Innovative Finance
August 1, 2024
Context and Problem
In Cameroon prior to 2017, Cameroon had one of the lowest textbook-to-student ratios in Sub-Saharan Africa, with only one textbook per 12 students nationwide and one for up to 30 students in disadvantaged areas. Moreover, nearly 72% of children cannot read and understand age-appropriate text by age 10. The cost of textbooks was three times higher than in comparable countries, which placed an even higher financial burden on parents. Moreover, due to civil conflicts and refugee influxes, the issue was exacerbated. On the policy framework side, frequent textbook changes prevented reuse, and weak procurement processes resulted in inequities, low-quality textbooks, and financial waste. A decade-long engagement between the Government of Cameroon and the World Bank has revolutionized this situation.
Solution
First, the Textbook Policy Reform introduced a national policy mandating the free provision of essential textbooks to public primary schools, standardizing a single textbook per subject to improve procurement efficiency and equity, setting a three-year minimum textbook lifespan, and establishing a transparent and objective textbook selection process with oversight by an independent technical committee. Second, strengthening procurement and distribution. This was done through improved book procurement processes to lower costs and ensure timely delivery. Third, collaboration with stakeholders. This included engagement with government bodies, publishers, civil societies, and development partners like the World Bank. Fourth, the implementation plan was supported by the Cameroon Education Reform Support Project (ERSP), financed by the World Bank and GPE. This enhanced multi-year financial planning and budgeting and developed strategies to improve the distribution chain, textbook storage, and its use.
Impact
The availability of textbooks quadrupled, with over 4 million students benefitting from improved access. Moreover, the student-to-textbook ratio improved from 12 students per book in 2016 to a package of three essential textbooks (French, English, Mathematics) for every two students in 2023, a significant achievement. Refugees and internally displaced students, who made up 35% of public primary school enrollments, directly benefited from these reforms. Textbook costs also dropped by over 50%, from $6.25 in 2013 to an average $2.90 in 2020. Textbook usage also improved learning engagement and outcomes, with teachers reporting better classroom participation.