Poverty reduction and economic growth are possible when countries invest in educating their people. Research shows a positive relationship between educational attainment and individual income, and that a highly skilled workforce can spur economic growth. Investment in human capital leads to improved worker quality, which directly reduces poverty and contributes to a reduction in income gaps. Education also yields strong economic and social benefits for girls and women. There is a strong correlation between girls’ education and accelerated economic growth, slower population growth, higher wages, increased agricultural yields and labor productivity, and improved health and well-being at the household level. MCC applies country ownership—one of its core principles—in its work with partner countries. Countries that identify education as one of their constraints to growth design projects that are consistent with country goals and strategies and work on policy and institutional reforms that will enable inclusive, quality education.

Primary Functions

• Capacity building/Technical assistance
• Funding
• Networking/Convening

Secondary Functions

• N/A

Geographic Scope

• Global / regional

Attainment

• Post-secondary
• Primary completion
• Primary enrollment
• Primary to secondary transition
• Secondary completion

Other skills

• Vocational training

Quality

• School facilities
• Teacher training

Skills

• Literacy
• Numeracy
• STEM

Website

Millennium Challenge Corporation

Headquarters location(s)

• Washington, D.C., , United States of America

Office location(s)

• United States of America