Background and Relevance of the Topic
In Mexico, as in any society striving for independence and sustainable growth, education expenditure is a crucial strategic variable for connecting, preparing, and developing professionals with the skills and talent to integrate the best practices and innovations into the country’s productive activities. These leaders are essential for addressing problems and fostering a positive change in the economic and social reality of Mexico.
Education Spending in 2024 and Projected Stagnation in 2025
In 2024, Mexico’s national education spending reached 1.17 billion pesos, a real increase of 3.1% compared to the previous year, according to the Secretaría de Educación Pública (SEP). However, for 2025, estimates point to stagnation with a reduction of 0.1% compared to the previous year.
Increase in Higher Education Enrollment
Despite some contrary opinions, education remains an aspirational project for improving people’s and families’ living conditions. This is evident in the rise of higher education enrollment, estimated to reach 5.52 million students by 2025—a 37% increase from 2015.
Greater Incorporation of Women in Higher Education
Since 2020, there has been a notable increase in women’s participation in higher education. By the 2024-2025 academic year, women outnumber men in all university spaces by 15%. From 2010 to 2025, the number of men in higher education increased by 129%, while women’s enrollment rose by 150%.
Persistent Gender Wage Gap
Ironically, despite the strong female presence in professional university life, this progress has not led to a reduction in the gender wage gap. According to the International Labour Organization (ILO), Mexico’s gender wage gap is 14%, meaning that for every 100 pesos a man earns on average per month, a woman earns 86 pesos.
Comparison with Other Countries
Compared to other countries analyzed by the ILO, Mexico’s gender wage gap is lower than in the United States (23.5%), Japan (25.7%), and the United Kingdom (32.7%). Colombia, however, has a more favorable gap of 4.9%.
Factors Contributing to the Gender Wage Gap in Mexico
The Institute for Competitiveness in Mexico states that there is no single or generalized explanation for the gender wage gap, as it depends on various factors influencing economic dynamics.
Working Hours and Unpaid Activities
One significant factor is working hours; women dedicate more than double the time of men to unpaid activities, limiting their aspirations for management or leadership positions. However, well-prepared women tend to reach higher positions in better-paying sectors.
Concentration of Women in Specific Economic Activities
Another determinant factor is the concentration of women in certain economic activities. In Mexico, the rapid growth of the tertiary or service sector has contributed to the gender wage gap.
Employment Trends in Mexico
Between 2005 and 2025, the National Occupation and Employment Survey shows that the number of people employed in Mexico increased by 18.69 million, a 46% rise. During the same period, male employment grew by 9.28 million (36%) while female employment increased by 9.41 million (63%). This rapid growth was concentrated in the tertiary sector, where women’s employment grew by 70%, while men’s increased by only 49%.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the current state of education spending in Mexico? In 2024, education spending reached 1.17 billion pesos but is projected to stagnate in 2025.
- How has higher education enrollment changed? Enrollment is expected to increase by 37% from 2015 to 2025, reaching 5.52 million students.
- What is the current gender wage gap in Mexico? The ILO reports a 14% gender wage gap, with women earning 86 pesos for every 100 pesos men earn.
- How does Mexico’s gender wage gap compare to other countries? While higher than Colombia’s 4.9%, Mexico’s gap is lower than the United States (23.5%), Japan (25.7%), and the United Kingdom (32.7%).
- What factors contribute to the gender wage gap in Mexico? Factors include differences in working hours and concentration of women in lower-paying sectors like the tertiary or service sector.
