Trends and Patterns of Higher Educational Attainments Among the Youth of Assam: Insights from NSSO’sEducation Surveys

Abstract

Higher education plays a crucial role in shaping the societal and economic development of a region, especially in marginalized areas such as Assam, a north-eastern state of India. It serves as a powerful tool for empowerment, fostering human capital, and enhancing social mobility. Despite Assam's progress in improving higher education, significant disparities still persist, particularly among different socio-economic groups, undermining the potential for equitable development. While enrolment rates have increased over the past decades, these inequalities continue to impact educational outcomes across various segments of the population. This study aims to examine the trends and patterns of higher educational attainment among the youth of Assam, using data from multiple rounds of the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) Education Survey. The study analyses disparities across gender, socio-economic groups, and urban-rural settings to understand the gaps in educational attainment. The findings reveal that while there have been notable improvements in educational participation, substantial inequalities remain, especially among different gender, social, and religious groups. Additionally, it has been observed that individuals from wealthier backgrounds tend to have higher educational attainments, and urban areas have experienced more pronounced improvements over the years. The study emphasizes the need for targeted policy interventions to ensure inclusive and equitable access to higher education in Assam, thereby fostering greater societal and economic development.