Exploring the Correlates of Representation and Participation of SC Youth in Higher Education in Uttar Pradesh: A Comparative Analysis with Non-SC Youths using NFHS Data
Author(s): 1. Chandan Kumar Kushwaha, 2. Prof. Nigar Alam Siddique
Authors Affiliations:
1. Research Scholar: Department of Geography, Faculty of Science, Aligarh Muslim University Aligarh, India – 202002
2. Professor: Department of Geography, Faculty of Science, Aligarh Muslim University Aligarh, India – 202002
Abstract: Higher education plays a crucial role in social mobility, yet disparities persist across caste and socio-economic groups in India. This study examines the representation and participation of Scheduled Caste (SC) youth in higher education in Uttar Pradesh, comparing them with Non-SC youths. Utilising secondary data from the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5, 2019–2021), the study investigates whether SC youth lag behind in attaining higher education and assesses the impact of caste, income levels, location, household structure, housing type, and access to amenities. The study employs a Chi-Square (χ²) test to analyse associations between categorical variables and higher education attainment. The dependent variable is higher education participation (Yes/No), while independent variables include caste (SC vs. Non-SC), income (Poor, Middle, Rich), locality (Urban vs. Rural), household structure (Nuclear vs. Non-Nuclear), housing type (Kachha, Semi-Pucca, Pucca), and access to amenities such as electricity, computers, mobile phones, and internet connectivity. Results reveal a strong link between socio-economic factors and higher education participation. Income level (χ² = 25.67, df = 2), locality (χ² = 12.34, df = 1), housing type (χ² = 16.29, df = 2), and access to computers (χ² = 27.88, df = 1) and the internet (χ² = 22.41, df = 1) significantly influence educational attainment. SC youth, often from lower-income and rural backgrounds, face greater challenges in accessing these resources, leading to lower participation in higher education. Notably, digital access is emerging as a crucial factor alongside financial stability. In contrast, household structure (χ² = 0.136, df = 1) does not significantly affect education participation. These findings underscore the need for targeted policies to bridge educational disparities at higher education level. Improving digital infrastructure, electricity access, and financial support for SC youth can enhance higher education participation. Addressing these gaps is essential to ensuring equal opportunities and fostering social mobility in Uttar Pradesh.
Chandan Kumar Kushwaha, Prof. Nigar Alam Siddique(2025); International Journal of Research Culture Society, ISSN(O): 2456-6683, Volume – 9, Issue – 3., Pp.24-38. Available on – https://ijrcs.org/
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