Structural barriers and female student agency in sports related higher education in Bangladesh

This qualitative study explores the socio-structural challenges encountered by Bangladeshi female students enrolled in sports-related higher education. Semi-structured interviews were used to collect data in this qualitative study. The collected interview data were recorded in Bengali and translated into English using the appropriate translation procedure, then the data were analyzed. The study found that only 28% of female students chose to enroll in sports-related courses out of their own will. Most parents preferred their daughters to pursue careers such as medicine or teaching over sports-related fields. The study reveals that female students face various barriers from family, society, classmates, and sometimes teachers. The research identifies familial resistance, societal perceptions, and institutional biases as key barriers. Findings highlight the role of personal agency, self-confidence, and supportive networks in overcoming these challenges.