This study investigated the effects of higher education and adult education within populations (popularisation of higher education) on economic growth (gross domestic product; GDP) and the poverty line using panel data from 38 countries (1995–2021). OLS and quantile regression analyses revealed that higher education had a significantly positive impact on GDP growth, particularly for the working-age population. Popularising higher education played a positive role in the initial stages of development but could lead to overcapacity with negative consequences if not managed effectively. The study also highlighted the complex relationship between higher education popularisation and poverty reduction, finding that its effect varied across different stages of economic development.

Jian Li, Eryong Xue, Yukai Wei, Yunshu He