Joint research challenges the misconceptions and underscores the inclusive ethos of educational institutions managed by Muslims
Mohammad Alamullah | Clarion India
NEW DELHI – A collaborative study conducted by the Centre for Study and Research (CSR) and NOUS Network Private Limited has shattered the myth surrounding Muslim-managed educational institutions in the country. Titled “A Survey of Muslim-managed Public and Private Institutions of Higher Education in India,” the study presents empirical evidence challenging the misconception that these institutions exclusively cater to Muslim students. Instead, the research unveils a surprising reality: Hindu students outnumber their Muslim counterparts in higher education in these institutions.
According to the report, Hindu students constitute approximately 55 percent of the student population in Muslim-managed institutions, while Muslim students make up about 42 percent. The findings not only debunk misconceptions but also underscore the inclusive nature of these institutions, which are open to students from diverse religious backgrounds.
Despite the notable disparity in enrolment figures, the study refrains from delving into the underlying reasons behind this phenomenon. However, the overwhelming presence of Hindu students in Muslim-managed institutions serves as a testament to the quality of education offered, dispelling any doubts regarding the standard of academic excellence maintained by these establishments.
Discussing the implications of the study, Dr. Mohammed Rizwan, Director of CSR, hailed the research as a “myth-buster” and emphasised its significance in challenging the misinformation. He highlighted the need for targeted interventions to address challenges faced by the Muslim community in higher education, including increasing enrolment rates and reducing dropout rates.
At a roundtable event attended by educators, policymakers, and stakeholders, the report’s findings were met with both commendation and concern. Prof. Salim Engineer, Vice President of Jamaat-e-Islami Hind (JIH), lauded the study as a roadmap for improvement while lamenting the stagnant educational situation of the Muslim community. He urged recognition of the community’s achievements and contributions, advocating for a shift in attitude towards celebrating successes amid adversity.
Ali Javed, CEO of NOUS Network Pvt. Ltd., highlighted the report’s significance as a comprehensive overview of Muslim-affiliated higher education institutions. He expressed optimism that the findings would inform future initiatives aimed at advancing educational opportunities for all.
Highlighting the study’s findings, researcher Abid Faheem, who played a key role in compiling the data, pointed out that Muslims constitute over 14% of India’s population. However, their representation in higher education remains low. According to the latest All India Survey of Higher Education (AISHE-2021-22), only 4.8% of students enrolled in higher education are Muslims. This is even lower than the enrolment rates for Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST), which stand at 15.3% and 6.3% respectively. SCs and STs comprise 16.6% and 8.6% of the total population, respectively.
Key findings of the study shed light on the demographic composition and educational landscape of Muslim-managed institutions:
Universities:
• Out of 1113 universities in India, only 23 belong to the Muslim minority, constituting a mere 2.1% share.
• Uttar Pradesh boasts the highest number of Muslim universities, followed by Karnataka.
• Despite being a minority, Hindus comprise the majority (52.7%) of students in Muslim universities.
Colleges:
• Of 43,796 colleges in India, only 1,155 are managed by the Muslim minority, reflecting a 2.6% share.
• Kerala leads in the number of Muslim minority colleges, followed by Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra.
• Female enrolment in higher education among Muslims surpasses male enrolment.
Despite the significant presence of Muslim-managed institutions, challenges persist in ensuring equitable access to higher education for the Muslim community. The report advocates for targeted interventions and collaborative efforts to address these disparities and foster inclusive educational environments conducive to academic excellence.