Low income deterrent for Muslims in higher education: Survey by Manash Pratim Gohain

Income barrier is a major deterrent for Muslims in higher education. Referring to a sample survey of 2007-08 which shows gross attendance ratio of Muslims at 8.7% as opposed to 16.8% in case of non-Muslims in higher education, a study done by the National University of Educational Planning and Administration advocated mainstreaming madrassas on a par with secondary schools.

"The important characteristics of Muslim participation in higher education is that at higher levels of education like postgraduation, attendance of Muslims falls down considerably. Besides, higher percentage of Muslims (as compared to non-Muslims, 22.4% as compared to 19.2%) ends up doing diploma and certificate below graduate level," said the study conducted on 402 Muslim students enrolled in higher education.

The findings of the study are likely to be deliberated at the meeting of the National Monitoring Committee for Minorities’ Education in Delhi scheduled for Monday. HRD minister Kapil Sibal is going to chair the meet.

Another factor that emerges in the study is higher education is an investment for future returns. The study said, "Continuing traditional profession compelling to join the job market (income barrier) emerges as the main factor for low participation in higher education. On the other hand, expectation of social and economic return from higher education (opportunity for return) also emerges as the main motivating factor for the participation of Muslims in higher education."