In recent years, an increasing number of students, particularly women from Kerala, are opting to pursue higher education abroad. According to a study titled 'Middle Class Indian Students: Migration Recruiters and Aspiration' by Anand Panamthottam Cherian (George Mason University, US) and S Irudaya Rajan (IIMD), nearly 50% of students surveyed in Kerala expressed a strong desire to migrate abroad. For many, studying abroad is seen not only as a way to enhance career prospects but also as an escape from the patriarchal and male-dominated societal structures prevalent in their home state.
A Desire for Freedom and Independence
For female students, the decision to study abroad is often driven by a deep yearning for personal freedom-freedom to choose their career path, dress as they wish, and make life decisions without societal judgment. Many of these women view studying abroad as a gateway to a life of autonomy. In fact, 78% of the girls surveyed in the Youth Migration from Kerala study (2023) mentioned that studying abroad allows them to escape from the societal norms that constrain them in India.
'Better living conditions' are frequently cited as a reason for choosing foreign education, which includes the freedom to travel, economic independence, and the liberty to pursue relationships based on personal choice rather than societal expectations. In a society where even the most basic freedoms are often scrutinized, moving abroad represents an opportunity to break free from rigid norms and create a life aligned with one's own values and dreams.
Parental Support: Breaking Traditional Barriers
Interestingly, support for studying abroad is not just coming from the students but also from their families. Many parents, especially mothers, who have experienced the harsh realities of a patriarchal society, are encouraging their daughters to seek opportunities abroad. One mother shared, 'I couldn't pursue my education beyond the higher secondary level due to family pressures. At 19, I was forced into marriage. I don't want my daughter to face the same situation. That's why when she expressed a desire to study abroad, I fully supported her decision.'
This shift in parental attitudes signifies a growing awareness of the challenges that young women face in the traditional societal framework, especially when it comes to pursuing education and career goals.
Economic Opportunities and Better Work Culture
Another driving factor for students is the significant economic advantage and the better work culture abroad. Anagha Ramachandran, a student from Kozhikode, studying food processing product development in Canada, emphasize the financial and professional benefits of living abroad. 'The work culture here is far better than in India,' she explains. ' We get paid fairly for the work we do, and there is a clear distinction between work and personal life. In India, there is constant interference with personal choices and careers, especially for women.'
The respect for workers' rights, job security, and better work-life balance are key advantages of studying and working abroad. For many, it is not just about a better salary but about a healthier, more balanced lifestyle.
Safety, Flexibility, and Mental Well-being
In many parts of India, particularly in Kerala, young women face challenges related to safety, mobility, and independence. Sneha Sebastian, Kottayam native, a student at the University of Gottingen in Germany, noted, ' In India, I couldn't walk alone in night without feeling unsafe. In Germany, I can work night shifts and take part-time jobs while studying, and I feel completely secure.'
The safety, flexibility, and autonomy offered by studying abroad create a sense of freedom that is hard to achieve in India, where social expectations, security concerns, and gender-based restrictions often limit women's movement and opportunities.
Academic Excellence and Research Opportunities
For students pursuing research-oriented education, countries abroad offer world-class infrastructure and funding that are often unavailable in India. Sreeja, who is pursuing her Erasmus Mundus Masters in Italy and Sweden, explained, 'The education system here is focused on understanding concepts and applying them, rather than rote memorization. We have access to the latest research, and the funding and opportunities available for academic growth are unmatched in India.'
This research-focused approach to education allows students to explore new ideas and contribute meaningfully to their fields of interest, something that is often limited by outdated syllabi and rigid academic structures in India.
Embracing Global Citizenship
Studying abroad also offers a unique opportunity to experience cultural exchange and embrace global citizenship. Malappuram native Amala Thomas, studying in Spain, expressed that in Europe, there is no caste-based or gender-based discrimination. 'In India, you're often judged by your gender or caste. But here, I can live my life without anyone's interference. People are more open-minded, and I feel respected for who I am.' This sense of being valued for one's individuality and treated with respect, regardless of background, is an empowering experience that resonates deeply with students.
Furthermore, the exposure to diverse cultures, ideas, and perspectives abroad fosters a sense of freedom and inclusivity, encouraging students to think beyond the confines of their own society and embrace a more globalized worldview.
Conclusion: The Changing Landscape of Education and Empowerment
The rising number of Malayalee girls choosing to study abroad illustrates a profound shift in attitudes towards education, independence, and gender equality. The opportunity to escape societal constraints, achieve career goals, and build a life on their own terms is empowering young women in Kerala to pursue their dreams, often in countries that offer a higher quality of life, better academic prospects, and more professional freedom.
As the experiences of these students reveal, the decision to study abroad is not just about education but about achieving a broader sense of freedom-freedom from societal oppression, from gender-based restrictions, and from the limitations imposed by a male-dominated culture. This migration, driven by the pursuit of personal autonomy and career fulfillment, represents a transformative moment in the lives of young women from Kerala, paving the way for future generations to follow.
