% of GDP 4.6% spent 4.5% 4.2% 4.6% 4.2% on Education Number of schools 189 The number of secondary schools, both public and private, has increased over the last five (5) years. Public secondary schools have increased from 981 in 2013 to 1,105 in 2017 representing a 13 percent increase. Similarly, private secondary schools have increased by 97, from an initial 209 schools in 2013 to 306 schools in 2017 representing a 46 percent increase. Scholarships 190 Access to higher education was enhanced through student loans, scholarships and grants from organizations and individuals. The introduction of Student loans by the Higher Education Students’ Loans and Grants Board (HESL&GB) has contributed to access and retention of needy students at risk of University/College drop-out due to financial limitations. During the 2016/17, financial year the Board was allocated a total budget ceiling amounting to MK3.0 billion of which a total of 83% amounting to MK2.449 billion was or student loans and 17% for the operations of the Board. 191 The Tables below indicate a summary of the status of education in Malawi at 2018 in terms of access, quality, efficiency, equity and budgeting expenditure. 68