A large number of male students from rural areas migrate to cities to pursue higher education or prepare for competitive exams.
Yet only a few achieve their goals, while many struggle due to inadequate academic preparation, financial hardship and a lack of proper guidance. Most have limited access to English-medium education up to matriculation, leaving them weak in English grammar, science and critical thinking. Their agricultural backgrounds further disconnect them from the modern educational environment.
These students shoulder numerous expenses: tuition fees, hostel rent, utility bills, books, food and daily necessities. With limited family income, many cannot afford coaching centres or tuition academies. Unaware of the value of self-study, they often take up jobs to cover costs. Though commendable, such work can negatively affect their physical and mental well-being. Private teaching jobs may also lead to exploitation. Added responsibilities like cooking and cleaning further disrupt their study schedules.
Social and psychological challenges also persist. Many rural students engage in political rallies, religious gatherings and voluntary work. They tend to choose roommates who share their beliefs, limiting exposure to diverse ideas. They often lack patience, tolerance, foresight, time management and self-discipline. Their hesitation to seek advice from seniors results in poor academic choices. Coming from conservative, religious households, many show limited interest in critical thinking and scientific reasoning. Most also lack basic financial literacy and saving habits.
Unfamiliar with urban life, coeducation and responsible smartphone use, rural students may struggle to adapt. They often marry young—an added obstacle to academic success. Their sociable nature sometimes leads to distractions through distant, unnecessary relationships. Misinterpreting parental expectations and mishandling new freedoms can result in repeated academic failures.
During vacations, many return to their villages to work in fields and orchards. While this reflects a strong work ethic, it can interrupt their academic progress. Instead of remaining idle, students should use these breaks productively by revising coursework or gaining relevant experience.
To support rural students, institutions should ensure proper supervision, financial assistance and placement with mature roommates. Regular assessments—quarterly or annually—can help monitor progress. Students must be encouraged to seek guidance from seniors and use modern tools such as the internet, YouTube, ChatGPT and DeepSeek to supplement their learning.
These students are not only striving for personal success but also hold the potential to uplift their communities. With the right support and direction, they can overcome adversity and become agents of change in their villages and beyond.
—The writer is associated with the Government Boys Degree College, Pishin, Balochistan.
