Gender Disparities in High School Student Participation Rates Amongst Burkina Faso Youth: A Quantitative Analysis

Burkina Faso's education system faces challenges in gender equity, particularly at the high school level where disparities persist. A mixed-methods approach combining secondary data analysis of national education surveys with qualitative interviews to explore perceptions and experiences of students and educators. Quantitative results show a consistent gender gap favoring male participation across all high school levels (grades 7-12), with boys constituting approximately 60% of the enrolled student population, while girls represent about 40%. Qualitative insights revealed barriers such as cultural norms and limited access to educational resources. The study underscores the need for targeted interventions aimed at increasing female participation in high school education through policy reforms that address structural inequalities. Implement gender-sensitive curricula, provide scholarships for girls, and strengthen teacher training programmes focused on inclusive teaching methods. Advocate for community-level initiatives to challenge traditional gender roles.