This study examines the challenges encountered by students in higher education within District Baramulla, Jammu and Kashmir. This analysis addresses critical factors including financial limitations, geographical isolation, socio-political instability, and the digital divide, which collectively impede students' academic achievement and overall well-being. Financial difficulties, especially the inability to cover tuition, living costs, and educational resources, compel numerous students to pursue part-time jobs, which impacts their academic performance. Geographical isolation and insufficient transportation infrastructure significantly hinder access to educational institutions, especially in rural regions. Socio-political instability, marked by recurrent unrest and disruptions, results in extended school closures, interruptions in academic activities, and psychological stress for students. The digital divide, characterised by restricted access to reliable internet and digital devices, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, hinders numerous students from engaging in online learning. This paper emphasises the necessity for comprehensive interventions to overcome these barriers, such as enhanced financial aid, improved infrastructure, a stable socio-political environment, and increased access to digital resources. The findings highlight the necessity of addressing these challenges to improve the educational experience and outcomes for students in Baramulla.

Higher Education, Financial Constraints, Socio-Political Instability, Online Learning, Educational Barriers, Kashmir

Students in Baramulla deal with a variety of issues that have an impact on their entire educational experience, mental health, and academic achievement. Some of the main barriers keeping students from reaching their full academic potential include the digital gap, sociopolitical unpredictability, physical remoteness, and financial limitations. Implementing comprehensive solutions that prioritise financial assistance, infrastructural improvement, maintaining a stable sociopolitical climate, and closing the digital gap is essential to addressing these issues. More financial assistance and scholarship possibilities should be made available to students, particularly those from low-income families. Prioritisation should also be given to enhancing the infrastructure for mobility and guaranteeing dependable access to educational institutions in outlying locations. In order to help students manage the stress of political upheaval, efforts must be made to provide a more stable sociopolitical environment in addition to support networks. Lastly, achieving fair access to education would be greatly aided by closing the digital gap by enhancing internet connectivity and giving students reasonably priced digital gadgets. In conclusion, even though Baramulla students confront many difficulties, they are not insurmountable. It is feasible to overcome these challenges and provide an educational setting where all students, irrespective of their socioeconomic or geographic origin, have the chance to thrive with focused efforts and assistance from the government and local communities. Students in Baramulla who are seeking higher education encounter a wide range of complicated obstacles, including those related to geography, infrastructure, politics, the economy, society, and psychology. These obstacles make it more difficult for kids to get a good education, achieve academic success, and reach their full potential. Government agencies, academic institutions, and local communities must work together to enhance infrastructure, offer funding, guarantee safety, and support mental health in order to overcome these challenges. The only way to change Baramulla's educational system and provide students the tools and chances they need to be successful in their academic and professional pursuits is by working together.

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