The Role of Zakat in Advancing Tertiary Education in Bangladesh: Insights from the Genius Scholarship Program
Introduction
Zakat, one of the Five Pillars of Islam, is a powerful tool for achieving social justice and reducing economic inequality. In Bangladesh, where the enrollment rate in tertiary education is a mere 6.6%, zakat has been instrumental in bridging the educational gap for students from low-income families. The Center for Zakat Management (CZM), a leading institution in zakat fund management, has implemented the Genius Scholarship Program (GSP) to support financially disadvantaged students in pursuing higher education. This article examines the effectiveness of zakat in improving tertiary education in Bangladesh, with a particular focus on the GSP's impact on educational attainment, economic empowerment, and personal development.
Impact of the Genius Scholarship Program on Education
The GSP has had a transformative impact on the educational journeys of its recipients. Since its inception in 2010, the program has provided scholarships to over 9,405 students across public universities, engineering universities, and medical colleges in Bangladesh. The financial assistance provided by the GSP has enabled students to continue their studies without the burden of financial constraints. For many, this support has been the difference between dropping out and completing their degrees.
A key indicator of the GSP's success is the increase in academic performance among its recipients. The program's beneficiaries have consistently maintained high academic standards, with an average CGPA of 3.68 among new recipients, 3.42 among current recipients, and 3.39 among graduates. Additionally, the scholarship has contributed to a significant increase in the percentage of female students in tertiary education, rising from 8% in the initial cohort to 69% in the most recent cohort. This demonstrates the program's effectiveness in promoting gender equity in higher education.
Moreover, the GSP's impact extends beyond mere academic performance. The scholarship has fostered a sense of responsibility and motivation among students, with many recipients participating in extracurricular activities and community service. This holistic approach to education has helped shape well-rounded individuals who are prepared to contribute positively to society.
Economic Empowerment and Impact on Family Life
The economic impact of the GSP on the lives of its recipients and their families is profound. Prior to receiving the scholarship, more than 93% of students relied heavily on household
support to finance their education. After receiving the GSP stipend, which provides BDT 3,000 per month, the financial burden on families was significantly alleviated. The average household income of GSP recipients increased by BDT 4,000 per month, allowing families to better support the education of other siblings and improve their overall quality of life.
The scholarship has also had a ripple effect on the community, inspiring other students to continue their education. According to focus group discussions (FGDs), 81% of scholarship recipients believe that the GSP has increased enthusiasm for education among community members, motivating even those who are not direct beneficiaries to pursue their academic goals. Additionally, 91% of recipients reported that their classmates were encouraged to stay in school after learning about the GSP.
Building Capacity and Shaping Future Leaders
A unique aspect of the GSP is its emphasis on capacity-building sessions, which distinguish it from other scholarship programs. These sessions focus on moral development, academic and personal growth, career planning, and leadership skills. According to the survey, 66.7% of recipients regularly attended these sessions, both online and offline, and found them highly beneficial.
The capacity-building sessions have had a lasting impact on the participants, with 100% of recipients acknowledging the effectiveness of the content. These sessions have helped students develop essential life skills such as time management, problem-solving, decisionmaking, and leadership. As a result, 83% of recipients believe that the training provided by the GSP is crucial for shaping their future, with many stating that these sessions offered knowledge and skills not typically covered in university curricula.
In addition to capacity-building, the GSP provides books that enhance moral values and deepen students' understanding of zakat. These materials have been particularly influential in increasing recipients' comprehension of zakat and its role in Islamic society. The CEO of CZM's writings on zakat, in particular, have been highlighted as a key resource for students.
Challenges and Recommendations
While the GSP has been largely successful, there are areas for improvement to enhance its impact. The timeline of the scholarship may need adjustment to better support students throughout their academic journey. Additionally, the stipend amount could be reviewed to account for regional variations in the cost of living and the specific needs of students based on their fields of study and gender.
Operationally, strengthening the CZM alumni network could improve the program's outreach and support mechanisms. Introducing mobile financial services for seamless stipend
distribution and establishing a robust monitoring and evaluation system would also contribute to the program's efficiency and transparency.
Conclusion
The Genius Scholarship Program exemplifies the potential of zakat as a catalyst for educational and social development in Bangladesh. By providing financial support and fostering personal growth through capacity-building sessions, the GSP has not only enabled students to pursue higher education but also prepared them to be future leaders and contributors to society. As Bangladesh continues to strive towards its educational and socio-economic goals, zakat-driven initiatives like the GSP will play a crucial role in shaping a more equitable and prosperous future.