AISHE Report for 2021-22 Reflects Gender and Social Inclusivity in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), UGC Chairman M. Jagadesh Kumar States

New Delhi: Mamidala Jagadesh Kumar, the Chairman of the University Grants Commission (UGC), expressed his satisfaction with the All India Survey on Higher Education (AISHE) reports for 2021-22. He remarked that he is pleased to witness the notable progress in Indian higher education. This report is not just a data collection but a story of inclusiveness, opportunities, and advancements in Indian academic spheres.

According to the AISHE report for 2021-22, higher education institutions have experienced a "rapid" surge in female enrollment, exhibiting a remarkable 32% increase since the academic year 2014-15. The UGC chairman expressed immense pride in this development, highlighting that the upward enrollment trend is evident across all social categories, signalling a transformative shift in access to higher education for female students.

Jagadesh Kumar emphasised that "The trend reflects the Indian education system's commitment to empower women to forge their own paths in their career journeys. Initiatives like targeted scholarships, girls' hostels, and flexible learning options have fostered an inclusive environment.”

Furthermore, the report noted a substantial rise in the enrollment of minority communities in higher educational institutions, which Kumar described as heartening. The total number of minority students has increased by 38% in higher educational institutions, with a 42.3% increase in female students from minority backgrounds.

Additionally, the report highlighted a significant 65.2% increase in the enrollment of students belonging to scheduled tribes in higher education institutions.

The Chairman said, “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.

Gender disparity in STEM programmes

He also stated that the persistent issue of gender disparity in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) is an ongoing concern. Kumar said "While we applaud the 35.1% surge in the enrollment of female students in science, the existing disparity in engineering and technology necessitates further reflection. The UGC is committed to dismantling societal stereotypes, promoting role models in these fields, and fostering an environment that confidently empowers young women to pursue their aspirations in science and technology."

He further highlighted another significant accomplishment of the Indian higher education system: the remarkable 81.2% increase in PhD enrollment and an impressive 107% rise among female students.

Latest UGC Updates:

• AMU, UGC-HRDC to organise online short-term course on Social Work Methods

• The Staff Training and Research Institute of Distance Education (STRIDE), IGNOU is organising a UGC approved 6-day Short Term Professional Development Programme entitled "Design & Development of e-Content for Online Learning and MOOCs" from 29 January 2024 to 3 February 2024.

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