Educational gaps in Ecuador: The case of the population with university studies

Abstract

The study addresses educational gaps in the Ecuadorian population aged 25 to 64 with higher university education, identifying socio-economic and geographical factors influencing access to education. The objective focused on presenting and analyzing educational disparities in this population, highlighting challenges and areas for improvement in the Ecuadorian educational system. The methodology utilized the 2022 National Survey of Employment, Unemployment, and Underemployment by the National Institute of Statistics and Censuses of Ecuador. Descriptive analyses were conducted, employing factorial and hierarchical analysis methods to categorize the population based on common characteristics. Results revealed a higher concentration of access to higher education in urban areas (88.15%), with a prevalence of mestizos and women (56.65%). The connection between higher education and formal employment, particularly in managerial positions (54.05%), is noteworthy. The study concludes the necessity to enhance access in rural areas and address gender inequalities. The linkage between education and employment underscores the importance of training for social mobility, proposing measures to enhance equal opportunities in the Ecuadorian educational and labor system.