Obtaining Higher Education: Status, Issues, And Challenges Among Muslim Women Students In Iligan City

Abstract

The study by Jamilnur D. Sarip, titled “Obtaining Higher Education: Status, Issues and Challenges among Muslim Women Students in Iligan City” (2024), explores the experiences of Muslim women pursuing college education in select private institutions in Iligan City. It aims to identify their socio-economic backgrounds, educational status, issues and challenges encountered, and possible remedies based on the findings. The research focused on three private schools—St. Michael’s College, Iligan Medical Center College, and St. Peter’s College—and used a mixed-method approach involving surveys and interviews with 103 Muslim women respondents, complemented by key informant interviews.

The study reveals that most respondents were young (19–29 years old), single, and Meranaw by ethnicity. Many were first-year college students enrolled in medical-related courses such as Medical Technology. A majority received small weekly allowances—mostly below ₱500—from their mothers, and many lived in rented dormitories or boarding houses within Iligan City. Their parents’ primary occupations were often government employment, indicating a modest but stable source of income.

In terms of their educational experiences, the respondents expressed mixed perceptions. Financial aspects were rated as a major factor influencing their ability to pursue higher education, while social and psychological aspects were generally less problematic. Issues relating to finances and psychological adjustment—such as managing expenses and coping with academic stress—were rated as significant, whereas social and spiritual issues appeared less concerning. Among the challenges identified, financial constraints and limited school facilities were most prominent, while academic and social difficulties were rated lower.

The findings suggest that many Meranaw Muslim women choose to study in Iligan City rather than in Lanao del Sur because of better academic opportunities, especially in medical-related programs. Studying outside their home province allows them to experience independence and adapt to a more diverse social environment. Despite being in a predominantly non-Muslim city, they continue to observe Islamic practices such as wearing modest attire, performing prayers, and maintaining halal dietary restrictions.

The study recommends that schools in Lanao del Sur enhance their educational programs to attract local Muslim students and provide better support systems. It also urges parents to motivate their children through rewards and guidance, and for schools to ensure the availability of halal food and integrate technology-driven learning strategies to better serve Muslim women students