Evidence from the field
Interviews and a focus group captured perspectives from students, parents, teachers, school leaders and education stakeholders.
Patiala STEM Collective · Baseline Study 2025–26
STEM Landscape Study
System barriers and support around gender-equitable STEM education in Patiala, Punjab.
This study examines the conditions that shape students’ STEM choices, with particular attention to the structural barriers girls encounter and the support systems that can help students pursue informed pathways.
2,250Students surveyed across 20 government schools
17Individual interviews
5Government schools in qualitative fieldwork
11Thematic findings in the report
About the study
Understanding the STEM pathway
The report brings together qualitative fieldwork and a student interest and curiosity survey. It explores aspirations, family expectations, access to guidance, affordability, mobility and safety, academic transitions, and the readiness of the local education ecosystem to support students.
Barriers are interconnected
The study describes how coaching costs, geography, family expectations, safety and the Class 10–11 transition can compound one another.
An ecosystem response
Schools, families, government, higher education institutions, civil society and funders each have a role in strengthening STEM pathways.
Key message
The challenge is not simply motivation. It is the system around students.
The report argues that many students have aspirations and that schools already have qualified teachers and infrastructure. The gap lies in the structured support that connects students to guidance and opportunities.
“The aspiration is there. The capability is there.”
01
Make support accessible in school hours
Design student-facing activities around school schedules and premises to reduce travel, safety and mobility barriers.
02
Support the Class 10–11 transition
Combine foundational mathematics support, practical lab learning and timely guidance before stream selection.
03
Expand career awareness and role models
Help students explore a wider range of pathways and connect with relatable students and professionals.
04
Strengthen family and scholarship support
Engage families through trusted teachers and make scholarship information and application processes easier to navigate.
Publication
Read the full study
Browse the report below or open/download the PDF. If the embedded viewer is not supported by your browser, use the PDF link.
STEM Landscape Study — Patiala, Punjab
Baseline Study 2025–26 · Patiala STEM Collective
Study credit: Patiala STEM Collective. The report acknowledges institutional engagement from PI-RAHI and support from Genpact. Please refer to the report for methodology, limitations and attribution details.