Publication

Evidence-Informed Policymaking: Education Data-Driven Decision Mapping in Kenya and Senegal

8 October 2026

By Analisa Goodmann

Between December 2022 and February 2024, Development Gateway: An IREX Venture (DG) and IREX, funded by the William & Flora Hewlett Foundation, conducted research in Kenya and Senegal to explore the complexities of education data supply, access, and decision-making processes. Effective decision-making in education relies on reliable, comparable, and accessible data managed through efficient information systems, facilitating resource optimization and goal monitoring. However, many countries, including Kenya and Senegal, experience challenges with unreliable education data, limited data utilization for decision-making, and insufficient national capacity to manage and leverage data effectively. The research, employing DG’s Custom Assessment and Landscape Methodology (CALM), involved a desk review, stakeholder consultations, interviews, and validation workshops. Rather than an evaluation or comprehensive diagnostic, the study aimed to gather diverse perspectives and stories from stakeholders to contribute to ongoing discussions, technical investments, and reform efforts. We present key findings in Kenya and Senegal, before comparing and identifying shared characteristics that may be useful to assess in other country contexts.

Exploring the education data systems in Kenya and Senegal, this study—which was done by DG in collaboration with our strategic partner IREX and supported by the William & Flora Hewlett Foundation—was conducted to ultimately inform further research and reform by gathering stories and perspectives from stakeholders to shed light on the complexities of education data supply, access, and utilization.

This work is essential because effective decision-making in education hinges on relevant, comparable, and accessible data that is managed through efficient information systems. These systems enable policymakers to discern effective strategies, optimize resources, monitor goal achievement, and foster trust. Therefore, well managed education data systems are key components for optimized education systems.

In the study, DG and IREX underscore the necessity of a harmonized approach to education data management. By prioritizing data governance, incentivizing data use, and ensuring interoperability of existing systems, Kenya and Senegal can enhance their education data ecosystems. These steps are crucial for fostering informed decision-making, optimizing resources, and ultimately improving educational outcomes. The insights gained from this study provide a valuable roadmap for future reforms and investments in education data systems.