Volume : 12, Issue : 1, JAN 2026

CHALLENGES FOR STUDENT-ATHLETES IN HIGHER EDUCATION IN JAMIA MILLIA ISLAMIA

DHANANJAY KUMAR, DR. ARIF MOHAMMAD

Abstract

Student-athletes in higher education contribute significantly to holistic development but often encounter academic, social, and institutional challenges. This study examines the prospects and challenges of student-athletes at Jamia Millia Islamia, a Central University in India. Using a descriptive survey method, data were collected from 163 student-athletes across various sports disciplines through a structured questionnaire. The study explores demographic profiles, academic conditions, institutional support, social experiences, and career prospects. Findings indicate that while student-athletes display strong leadership skills, high competitive participation, and positive perceptions of career skills gained through sports, they experience considerable academic stress, time-management difficulties, health concerns, and social isolation. Limited coordination between academic departments and sports authorities further exacerbates academic–athletic conflicts. Although institutional provisions such as sports quotas exist, the lack of flexible academic policies and structured support restricts dual-career development. The study underscores the need for curriculum flexibility, academic support, teacher sensitization, and coordinated institutional strategies to improve student-athletes’ academic success and well-being.

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IESRJ

International Educational Scientific Research Journal

E-ISSN: 2455-295X

International Indexed Journal | Multi-Disciplinary Refereed Research Journal

ISSN: 2455-295X

Peer-Reviewed Journal - Equivalent to UGC Approved Journal

Peer-Reviewed Journal

Article No : 21

Number of Downloads : 15

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