Educational Paradox and the Significance of Women’s Tertiary Education in Bangladesh

Abstract Book of the 8th Global Conference on Women's Studies

Year: 2026

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Educational Paradox and the Significance of Women’s Tertiary Education in Bangladesh

Aoi Matsuda

ABSTRACT:

This research uses qualitative methods to unpack the subjective and firsthand experiences of adult Bangladeshi students who enrolled at the Asian University for Women (AUW). Interviews with AUW students are about to start via Zoom, and data analysis is expected to be completed by mid-February. Bangladesh exhibits an “Educational Paradox”: while the country has achieved near-parity in educational attainment, ranking 1st in both primary and secondary enrollment, enrollment in tertiary education in Bangladesh ranks 125th in the world. Despite having the fastest-moving economy for gender parity, the female labor force participation rate is still 43.35%. In addition, the number of women pursuing higher education is increasing, yet it is undeniable that degree-holding women face poor employability and a lack of sustainable jobs. Therefore, the significance of this research lies in comprehending how tertiary education–designed for leadership and women’s empowerment–helps students overcome cultural and societal barriers that contribute to the underrepresentation of women and the low employment rate of educated women in Bangladesh. Through qualitative methods, this study seeks to gain a deeper understanding of how students perceive the value and meaning of higher education and how it relates to their future decisions and career aspirations.

Keywords: Asian University for Women; Bangladesh; Employment; Tertiary Education; Women