Investment in education and its impact on the socioeconomic performance of the inhabitants of Ecuador in the period 2013 – 2023

Abstract

This study analyzed the relationship between investment in education and Ecuador's socioeconomic performance during the period 2013-2023. A multiple regression model was applied to evaluate the impact of public spending on education and the average years of schooling on the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The results show that a 1% increase in educational spending leads to a 0.78% rise in GDP, while an additional 1% in average schooling increases GDP by 1.68%, demonstrating that the accumulation of human capital has a stronger effect than spending alone. The model explains 67% of the variation in GDP, confirming that education is a key factor in the country's economic growth. Furthermore, the theoretical and statistical analysis suggests that the greatest benefits come from higher education and technical training, areas that generate higher levels of productivity. However, territorial inequalities persist, limiting the investment impact, especially in peripheral regions with reduced access to educational and technological infrastructure. Therefore, it is recommended to strengthen investment in higher education, close regional gaps, and promote policies that improve the quality and equity of the national educational system.