AISHE report 2021-22 reflects gender, social inclusivity in HEis, says UGC chairman M Jagadesh Kumar

NEW DELHI: University Grants Commission (UGC) chairman Mamidala Jagadesh Kumar highlighting the All India Survey on Higher Education (AISHE) report 2021-22, said, "I am delighted to see the remarkable strides in Indian higher education. This report is not merely a data point but reflects a story of inclusivity, opportunity, and progress in Indian academic spaces."

As per the AISHE report 2021 -22, higher education institutions have witnessed a “rapid” rise in female enrolment, showcasing a 32% rise since 2014-15. “It gives me immense pride,” the UGC chairman said. He added that the trend (of rising enrolment in higher education institutions) is evident across all social categories and it signifies a paradigm shift in access to higher education for female students.

“The trend shows that the Indian education system aims to empower women to create their own paths in their career journey. Initiatives such as targeted scholarships, girls' hostels, and flexible-learning options have played a crucial role in promoting this environment of inclusivity,” Kumar added.

Rise in enrolment of minority communities

The report has also mentioned that enrolment among minority communities in higher educational institutions has also seen a significant rise. “This portrays a heartening picture. The total number of minority students has increased by 38% in higher educational institutions while the total number of female students belonging to minorities also increased by 42.3%,” Kumar added.

The enrolment of students belonging to scheduled tribes has increased 65.2% in HEIs. “A sharp rise in scheduled caste and OBC representation highlight our commitment to bridging the equity gap and ensuring educational opportunities reach all corners of society. Targeted outreach programs, affirmative action policies, and dedicated scholarships have paved the way for this positive transformation,” the chairman said.

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Gender disparity in STEM programmes

He also highlighted the issues of gender disparity in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields remains a point of focus. “While we celebrate the 35.1% increase in the science enrolment of female students, the lag in engineering and technology calls for further introspection. The UGC aims to continue dismantling societal stereotypes, promoting role models in these fields, and creating an environment encouraging young women to pursue their science and technology aspirations confidently,” Kumar said.

The 81.2% increase in PhD enrolment, with a whopping 107% rise among female students, is another noteworthy achievement of the Indian higher education system, he added.