New Delhi: Higher education plays a crucial role in empowering society and driving social change. Educational institutions serve as key platforms for promoting gender equality and inclusivity, thereby reducing the gender gap. Increased female enrollment in higher education not only enhances women’s living standards but also strengthens their decision-making power in society.
Despite progress, gender disparity in higher education remains a significant issue across India, particularly outside of a few southern states. Socio-economic, cultural, and infrastructural factors continue to contribute to this gap. However, government policies and interventions have steadily improved gender representation in higher education.
Between 2010-11 and 2021-22, student enrollment in higher education increased from 27.5 million to 43.27 million, marking a 57.34% growth. In 2021-22, women constituted 47.82% of total enrollments, narrowing the gender gap to 4.36%. Additionally, 16 states and union territories now report female enrollment rates exceeding 50%.
The participation of women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) is critical for national development. Currently, 22.8% of students are enrolled in STEM courses, with 58% in science programs and 42% in engineering and technology. However, female enrollment in engineering and technology stands at only 29.33%, with architecture being the only field where women outnumber men.
The Indian government has launched various initiatives to boost female participation in engineering and technology. However, representation remains significantly low in premier institutions such as IITs, NITs, IISERs, deemed universities, and private universities.
Public policy continues to emphasize literacy and scientific education, aiming for a 100% literate society. The establishment of IITs was intended to build a skilled workforce for economic and social progress. While government efforts have improved school and college enrollment rates among girls, ensuring their seamless transition into higher education based on their interests and capabilities remains a challenge.
Though progress is evident in general and higher education, STEM fields still require targeted efforts. Increasing female representation in STEM courses will not only empower women but also contribute to India’s economic growth. The data for this analysis is based on reports from the All-India Survey on Higher Education (AISHE) from 2010-11 to 2021-22.
