Student Support Services in Assam's Higher Education: An Empirical Study

Abstract

Student support, encompassing scholarships, counseling, and various administrative services, is essential for accommodating the increasing diversity within the student population. This empirical study examines the student support services in higher education institutions in Assam, particularly focusing on NAAC-accredited colleges. The study identifies and analyzes the mechanisms available for facilitating students' academic and career aspirations, aiming to foster holistic development.Using secondary data from Self Study Reports of 26 accredited colleges over five years,from 2016-17 to 2020-21, the research assesses various components such as the relationship between institutional performance, scholarship distribution, capacity-building initiatives, and student progression. The findings indicate that while government support significantly surpasses institutional resources, there remains a pressing need for enhanced career guidance and skill development programs. The study concludes with recommendations for optimising student support systems to align with the diverse needs of students, thereby improving their academic outcomes and career trajectories.