PUBLIC OPINION ON THE RISING COST OF HIGHER EDUCATION AND ITS ACCESSIBILITY IN GUJARAT: A SURVEY-BASED STUDY

Higher education plays a central role in enabling socio-economic advancement and mobility. Institution growth in Gujarat has increased the number of opportunities for higher education, but increasing tuition charges, hostel charges, and ancillary fees have given rise to major concerns with regard to higher education accessibility and affordability. This research through a survey investigates public opinion towards rising charges and their impact on enrollment decisions and equity in higher education. Students, parents, and stakeholders from different socio-economic strata were surveyed to understand perceptions of affordability, the perceived burden of rising fees, and the expected government action. Statistical analyses, including ANOVA and Chi-square tests, were used to analyze differences in perceptions across demographic strata. Findings suggest extensive consensus that rising charges are a concern for families at all income and educational levels, underscoring the need for policy interventions, scholarship programs, and regulatory measures towards inclusive access to higher education in Gujarat.