Author: Krishna Haldar
DOI Link: https://doi.org/10.70798/Bijmrd/04020044
Abstract : Access to higher education is an important pathway for social mobility and empowerment, yet Scheduled Tribe girls in the South Dinajpur district of West Bengal continue to face serious exclusion from this level of education. The present study focuses on understanding the nature of access to higher education and the multiple factors that contribute to the exclusion of Scheduled Tribe girls from colleges and universities. Using secondary sources such as census reports, government education statistics, policy documents, and existing research studies, the paper examines social, economic, cultural, and institutional barriers affecting their participation in higher education. The study highlights that poverty, early marriage, household responsibilities, lack of nearby higher educational institutions, poor transport facilities, and inadequate financial support are major obstacles. In addition, low parental education, limited awareness about higher education opportunities, language barriers, and gender discrimination within families further reduce the chances of continuation beyond secondary schooling. Institutional challenges such as insufficient hostels for tribal girls, lack of academic guidance, and weak implementation of scholarship schemes also contribute to exclusion. The findings reveal that despite constitutional safeguards and government initiatives aimed at promoting tribal education, the benefits do not reach many Scheduled Tribe girls at the grassroots level. The gap between policy intentions and ground realities remains wide in South Dinajpur district. The study emphasizes the need for targeted interventions such as strengthening local colleges, improving hostel and transport facilities, ensuring timely disbursement of scholarships, and creating awareness among tribal communities about the value of higher education for girls. So, the paper argues that improving access to higher education for Scheduled Tribe girls requires a holistic approach that addresses both socio-cultural barriers and institutional shortcomings. Enhancing higher educational participation among tribal girls is essential not only for individual empowerment but also for inclusive regional development.
Keywords: Higher Education, Scheduled Tribe Girls, Educational Exclusion, Access to Education, South Dinajpur, West Bengal.
Page No: 356-362