ShodhPatra: International Journal of Science and Humanities

Socio-Cultural Determinants of Academic Performance among Undergraduate Students in Tribal Areas

Academic performance among undergraduate students in tribal areas is shaped not only by individual aptitude and institutional resources but also by a complex interplay of socio-cultural determinants. Family encouragement, peer support, household responsibilities, participation in cultural practices, and language barriers collectively influence students’ learning experiences and academic outcomes. These factors operate simultaneously as sources of support and as constraints, creating a distinctive educational context for tribal learners. Family support emerges as a crucial motivational force, providing emotional encouragement, guidance, and, in some cases, practical assistance that enables students to persist in their studies. Peer networks also play a significant role by facilitating collaborative learning, information sharing, and mutual academic guidance, particularly in the absence of formal mentoring structures. However, household responsibilities and community obligations often reduce the time available for academic work and contribute to fatigue and stress. Despite these challenges, such responsibilities foster important qualities such as discipline, resilience, time management, and a sense of responsibility, which can positively influence academic commitment. Language barriers remain a significant challenge for many tribal students, especially when the medium of instruction differs from their mother tongue. This linguistic gap can hinder comprehension, classroom participation, and academic confidence, underscoring the need for targeted language support mechanisms within higher education institutions. The study further explores the types of assistance students perceive as essential for academic success, including sustained family encouragement, mentorship, emotional support, and greater community awareness regarding the value of higher education. The findings indicate that while socio-cultural expectations may sometimes constrain study routines, they also transmit positive values that enhance motivation and perseverance. Addressing these factors through a holistic and culturally sensitive approach is therefore essential for fostering academic engagement, improving performance, and ensuring the long-term educational success of tribal undergraduate students