Availability accessibility and peoples perception of higher education in Haryana

Abstract

Higher education is crucial as it contributes to the progress and growth of the economy and the consolidation of democracy and social justice to society. In 2019-20, Haryana had 1075 colleges and 53 universities including only one Women University. A remarkable increase particularly during 2000-10, both in the number of colleges and universities was due to the privatization of the higher education sector. The National Capital Region (NCR) districts in close proximity to National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi had the highest number of universities. Rohtak owing to its location in NCR, had the highest gross enrolment ratio of total population, while Nuh was at the bottom due to lack of positive attitude of local people for sending their children to far off places and low availability of higher education institutions close by. Buffer analysis of government colleges in the state revealed that Sirsa, the largest district of Haryana, had the largest unserved area beyond 20 kms. The catchment areas of state public universities and state private universities were comparatively smaller in the districts of National Capital Region (NCR) in close proximity to National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi. The surveyed students and teachers were found to be moderately satisfied with the current status of higher education system in the state. However, government intervention to facilitate further progress in the field of higher education, for reducing disparities and prioritizing female education, in their opinion, is absolutely necessary. newline