The Role of NPOs in Compulsory-Education Aid in China

Abstract

Previous research has linked the activities of the non-profit sector to desired aid outcomes in China, such as improved public-service quality. However, issues related to the role of non-profit organizations (NPOs) in compulsory-education aid have received little attention. This study draws on Dennis Young’s complementarity theory – one of the most prominent non-profit theories – in examining the necessity and feasibility of NPO aid to Chinese compulsory education. In addition, it undertakes exploratory research in order to test an integrated model. Based on both data collected in surveys or interviews and statistical data from 263 Chinese county-level jurisdictions in five provinces (including 1 autonomous regions and 2 provincial-level municipalities), this study concludes that NPO aid can positively influence compulsory-education outcomes in mainland China. Its main contribution is to expand our understanding of NPOs and offer insights on how public managers can improve governance.