Female Tertiary Education Across ASEAN Countries: A Descriptive Analysis Based on Barro-Lee Educational Attainment Projection 2015-2020

Abstract

Female tertiary education is an essential indicator of Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) of gender equality and inclusive education. It is an important strategic focus to reduce the gender gap and ensure women's status is appreciated and empowered in the social-political-economic development of the society. This study discusses female tertiary education enrollment and completion levels for 2015 and 2020 across the ten ASEAN countries. Following Barro and Lee's projection, the average female population in ASEAN enrolled in tertiary education was less than 20% for 2020, with minimal improvement from the previous five years (15.52%-17.76%). However, there is no clear indication of a significant gender gap, with female enrollment and completion of tertiary education are reflective of the overall population status. In addition, there are clear signs of a reduced number of female populations who have completed their tertiary education across all ASEAN countries (2020 =-7.06%; 2015 =-6.25%). These findings emphasize the need for strategic policy intervention and regional corporation to improve female involvement in tertiary education in the ASEAN region.