By – Ramakrishnan Raman, Vice Chancellor, Symbiosis International University

The Maharashtra government’s decision to provide free higher education for girls from Economically Weaker Sections (EWS), Socially and Economically Backward Classes (SEBC), and Other Backward Classes (OBC) marks a monumental step toward transforming our socio-economic landscape. This initiative will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in enhancing access to education for many young women, creating ripple effects that benefit individuals, families, and communities.

Education is a powerful tool for empowerment. When girls have access to higher education, they gain knowledge, skills, and confidence to pursue various career paths. This not only helps them achieve personal and professional growth but also enables them to contribute meaningfully to society. Educated women are more likely to participate in the workforce, take on leadership roles, and drive positive changes in their communities. By providing free higher education, we can break the cycle of poverty that traps many families. Education opens doors to better job opportunities and higher incomes. When girls from economically disadvantaged backgrounds are educated, they are more likely to secure well-paying jobs and support their families financially. This leads to improved living standards and economic stability for future generations.

Free higher education for girls is a significant step toward promoting gender equality. Historically, girls and women have faced numerous barriers to education, including financial constraints, societal norms, and discrimination. By removing the financial burden of tuition and exam fees, this initiative ensures that girls have equal opportunities to pursue their educational goals. As more girls gain access to higher education, gender disparities in education and employment will gradually diminish. Educated women contribute to various aspects of social development. They are more likely to advocate for health, hygiene, and nutrition within their families and communities. Additionally, educated mothers tend to place a higher value on their children’s education, leading to better educational outcomes for the next generation. This creates a positive cycle of development, where education leads to improved health, reduced poverty, and overall societal progress.

A well-educated workforce is essential for economic growth. By investing in the education of girls, we are investing in the future of our economy. Educated women bring diverse perspectives and skills to the workplace, driving innovation and productivity. They also contribute to various sectors such as healthcare, education, and technology, which are critical for economic development. While the initiative is promising, it is essential to address potential challenges to ensure its success. Adequate infrastructure, quality education, and support services are crucial for maximizing the benefits of free higher education. Additionally, continuous monitoring and evaluation are necessary to identify areas for improvement and ensure that the initiative reaches all eligible girls.

Despite the benefits, students from EWS, SEBC, and OBC backgrounds may face several challenges when integrating into higher education institutions. These students often encounter cultural and social barriers, experiencing feelings of isolation and a lack of belonging due to differences with peers from more affluent backgrounds. Academically, many of these students have not had access to quality education in their earlier years, leading to gaps in foundational knowledge and skills, which can hinder their academic progress. Financial constraints persist even with free tuition, as other costs associated with higher education, such as books, supplies, transportation, and living expenses, can be burdensome. Language barriers pose another significant challenge, particularly for students from non-English-speaking backgrounds who may struggle with courses taught in English, affecting both their performance and confidence. Additionally, limited access to resources such as technology, libraries, and extracurricular activities can diminish the overall educational experience. The pressure to succeed and the fear of failing contribute to psychological stress and mental health issues, further complicating their educational journey.

Educational institutions can take several steps to mitigate these challenges and ensure that all students thrive. First, fostering an inclusive campus culture that celebrates diversity and encourages interaction and understanding among students from different backgrounds is essential. Implementing bridging programs that offer additional academic support, tutoring, and mentorship can help students catch up on foundational skills and improve their academic preparedness. Providing financial assistance through scholarships, grants, and financial aid to cover non-tuition expenses is crucial to ensure that financial constraints do not hinder students’ academic pursuits. Language support services, including English language courses and writing centers, are vital for assisting students who are not proficient in the language of instruction. Ensuring access to necessary resources such as computers, internet, study materials, and extracurricular opportunities can enhance the overall educational experience. Robust mental health services, including counseling and stress management workshops, are necessary to support students’ psychological well-being. Establishing mentorship programs where senior students or alumni can guide and support new students can help them navigate academic and social challenges, contributing to their overall success and integration into higher education.

The Maharashtra government’s decision to provide free higher education for girls is a transformative step that has the potential to significantly impact socio-economic dynamics. By empowering young women with education and addressing the challenges they face, we can create a more equitable, prosperous, and progressive society. It is imperative that we continue to support and expand such initiatives, ensuring that every girl has the opportunity to reach her full potential and contribute to the betterment of our world.

Also read: Maharashtra: Free higher education for girls from EWS, SEBC, and OBC segments