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.