Influence of Social, Financial and Economic Factors on Academic Performance: A Case of Institut Supérieur Technique De Lubumbashi (ISTL)

Abstract

This study investigates the influence of economic factors (EF), financial factors (FF), and social factors (SF) on academic performance (AP) among students at the Institut Supérieur Technique de Lubumbashi (ISTL), using a Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) approach. The SEM examined the direct effects of EF, FF, and SF on AP, as well as the interrelationships among these factors. Results reveal that SF has the strongest impact on AP (0.42), followed by EF (0.28) and FF (0.16), highlighting the pivotal role of social support in students' academic success. Strong correlations among EF, FF, and SF indicate that these factors complement each other and jointly influence AP. Based on these findings, recommendations for ISTL include strengthening social support systems through mentorship, peer support groups, and counselling services, providing targeted financial assistance, and implementing programs to enhance students' economic resilience. Policy implications suggest that ISTL should adopt integrated student support strategies that address social, financial, and economic challenges holistically to improve academic outcomes. This study contributes to advancing our understanding of the multi-dimensional determinants of academic performance in higher education, particularly in the Congolese context.