世界银行-确保有效提供教学材料：以莫桑比克为例（英）-2023-6页_521kb

Summary of Case Study: Ensuring Efficient Provision of Teaching and Learning Materials in Mozambique

Introduction

Teaching and learning materials, particularly textbooks, are critical inputs for primary education, representing a cost-effective investment in learning quality. However, many Sub-Saharan African countries, including Mozambique, face challenges in timely and efficient supply due to outdated systems and high costs.

Problem in Mozambique

Mozambique's rapid post-conflict economic growth and introduction of free primary education in 2005 led to soaring enrollment, but inefficient textbook procurement and distribution systems hindered access. Issues included high costs (e.g., US$15 per book), uncompetitive bidding processes, excessive title variety, and ineffective distribution through a state agency, resulting in waste and limited educational outcomes.

Reforms Implemented

The government introduced a series of reforms starting in 2009, supported by international partners. Key measures included:

• Acquiring licenses for reprinting workbooks to enable competitive printing.
• Developing in-house workbooks for Grades 1 and 2 to eliminate licensing fees and reduce costs.
• Adopting international competitive bidding for textbook production and procurement.
• Rationalizing the curriculum to reduce the number of required textbooks from 82 to 33 titles.
• Improving distribution by transitioning to private sector carriers, reducing delivery inefficiencies.

Impact on Efficiency

Reforms led to substantial cost reductions and efficiency gains. Unit costs for workbooks dropped by 41%, and for textbooks by over one-third, while distribution costs fell by 70%. This improved efficiency allowed for educational expansion without proportional increases in funding, contributing to better overall education expenditure.

Lessons Learned

To enhance efficiency, countries should ensure regular, competitive, and flexible procurement processes. Separating publishing and printing can facilitate cost control and transition to self-production. Additionally, careful curriculum review to align textbook needs with actual requirements can optimize resource use and support sustainable education funding.