The Evolution of Power: Determining the Impact of Formal Education on African Presidents'Survival in Power

Abstract

This paper investigates the effect of individual characteristics of African leaders, particularly their highest earned degree, on their chances of survival in power. Using a unique database constituted solely for the purpose of this paper, it shows how the profile of African leaders has changed since 1960. Results indicate that overall, individual characteristics of African leaders have no impact on their chances of survival in power. Meanwhile, the introduction of democracy and multiparty elections on the African continent post-1990 has had an impact on the political selection of leaders on the continent. Since 1990 Africa has mainly been governed by at least college educated leaders, but results indicate that non-college educated leaders have increased chances of survival in power when compared to educated presidents, indicating that post-1990 there has been a persistence of non-college educated leaders in power.