Alleviating financial education debt through Zakah: proposing HOPE model to public higher education institution

Purpose This study aims to propose and validate the Holistic and Prosperous Education (HOPE) model to address the tertiary student loan burden of poor students in Malaysia’s public higher education. Design/methodology/approach This study employed an interpretivism paradigm to understand experts’ perspectives on the proposed HOPE model in higher education. Thus, the inductive approach is employed to better understand the research context and structure. The study uses a case study approach and interviews with four experts, covering information on the proposed HOPE model and respondents’ views on its practicability and validity. Findings The findings suggest a phased approach for disadvantaged students, aligning with Shariah’s objectives. Implementing the HOPE model at Malaysia’s local higher education (MLHE) could potentially catalyse transformative change within the higher education landscape. The HOPE model offers a promising alternative that harmonizes social responsibility, religious principles and institutional sustainability, addressing the persistent issue of student loan debt while fostering a more inclusive and prosperous educational environment. Practical implications The HOPE model can benefit students, educational institutions and the National Higher Education Fund Corporation (NEFC) financial sustainability. It emphasizes the responsible utilization of zakat funds and showcases its impact in addressing financial problems faced by students. Originality/value This study offers in-depth feedback from the various stakeholders, such as the top management of MLHE, NEFC and Shariah scholars, on the debt issues among tertiary students and the HOPE model proposed in this study to mitigate the loan burden problem among poor Muslim students.