UNDERSTANDING ENROLMENT DRIVERS AND BARRIERS IN FINANCIAL MARKETS EDUCATION: A FOCUS ON TIER 2 AND TIER 3 INDIAN CITIES

Abstract

This research paper investigates enrolment trends, motivations, and obstacles faced by individuals in financial markets programs, based on study conducted on a sample data of 207. It identifies primary reasons for choosing degree programs versus certificate programs, assesses the perceived value of these programs, and evaluates the effectiveness of different marketing tools in attracting participants. The findings highlight the impact of factors such as professional growth, financial literacy, affordability, and marketing efforts on enrolment choices. Additionally, the paper explores barriers related to awareness and accessibility, offering educational institutions insights to better align their programs and outreach.

Focusing on participants from an Tier 2 and Tier 3 Indian cities, this study explores perceptions and engagement with financial markets programs, with an emphasis on financial literacy and accessibility challenges. Five key areas were examined: program significance, barriers to adoption, suitability for urban versus rural populations, participant satisfaction, and likelihood of program recommendation. The results reveal a range of perspectives, with notable barriers including limited awareness, interest, resources, and affordability. Satisfaction ratings were mixed, with many respondents viewing the programs as moderately satisfactory, and recommendations were spread across the scale, indicating a need for more targeted approaches to boost engagement and program effectiveness. The study underscores the complexity of promoting financial literacy and offers insights into improving financial markets education for both urban and rural audiences.