Challenges Faced by Female Students in Accessing Higher Education in District Hangu

Abstract

The study's objective was to identify sociocultural and economic challenges female students face to access higher studies in the district of Hangu, Pakistan. A qualitative research approach was employed. The purposive sampling technique was used to select 15 female participants who discontinued their education after qualifying secondary school certificate examination. Data was gathered using semi-structured interviews and thematic analysis was employed to determine and organize the main themes and patterns in the data. The study revealed significant challenges contributing to low enrollment rates among females, including societal attitudes, cultural norms, early marriages, family obligations, gender-based division of labor, inadequate higher education institutions, long distance, and various other socio-cultural and economic issues. The availability of scholarships, affordable tuition fees, convenient transportation, and a favorable environment can attract a significant number of female students for higher education in rural areas like Hangu in Pakistan. This study also has implications for policy planners, administrators, and the Higher Education Commission (HEC) for promoting higher studies for female students.