African Journal of Religious Studies | 15 April 2000
Islamic Scholarship Centres' Impact on Academic Achievement and Dropout Rates Among Female Students in Cairo: An Action Research Study
A, h, m, e, d, E, l, -, M, a, s, r, y
Abstract
Islamic scholarship centres in Cairo have been established to support female students who face financial barriers to education. These institutions provide academic and religious guidance, and some offer scholarships to cover tuition fees. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including surveys, focus group discussions, and participant observation. Data were collected from a sample of 150 female students enrolled in arts and humanities courses at five Islamic scholarship centres in Cairo. The findings indicate that students who attended the scholarship centres had higher average grades (3.2 out of 4) compared to those not affiliated with these institutions, suggesting an academic advantage. Dropout rates among centre attendees were notably lower, with only 10% dropping out within a year, as opposed to 25% in comparable non-centre groups. The study concludes that Islamic scholarship centres significantly contribute to improving the academic performance and retention of female students in Cairo's arts and humanities programmes. Educational policymakers should consider expanding access to these scholarship centres, as they appear effective at mitigating financial barriers to education. Additionally, further research into the long-term educational benefits is recommended. Islamic Scholarship Centres, Academic Achievement, Dropout Rates, Female Students, Cairo