Effects of Socioeconomic Factors on Demand for Female Higher Education in Rural Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Pakistan

Abstract

The study's main objective is to analyze the effects of socio-economic factors on demand for female higher education in rural Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) of Pakistan. In this regard, primary data sources have been collected using a quantitative design. Primary data from 400 heads of households in rural KP was collected using a multifactor questionnaire. Social and economic factors were measured via the environment of higher educational institutions, access to higher educational institutions, parental education, distance, perception regarding gender inequality, and economic factors. Data collected from primary sources were analyzed using regression analysis initially via ordinary least square (OLS), but since the problem of heteroscedasticity was detected in the dataset, the OLS estimates became redundant; therefore, weighted least square (WLS) regression estimates were observed and comprehended. The outcomes of the primary data analysis (descriptive and regression analysis) revealed that the environment of higher educational institutions, parental education, and distance from the higher educational institutions had a significant direct effect on demand for female higher education. In comparison, access to higher educational institutions, gender inequality, and economic factors had an insignificant relationship with the demand for female higher education. Several policies, such as establishing higher educational institutions and boarding facilities in rural areas, were suggested based on the results. Additionally, awareness campaigns either through direct government programs initiation or via Non-Government Organizations (NGOs) were advised to be organized and conducted to increase awareness of both parents and the females themselves regarding the importance and benefits of female higher education.