Investments in K-12 over decades are yielding a demographic windfall, with more Grade 12 completers – especially females – fueling higher education growth, as detailed in the CII-Grant Thornton report on institutional evolution.
From 21.6% GER in 2012-13 to 29.7% in 2024-25 (2.5% CAGR), the sector's upward arc reflects rising aspirations and affordability, with private institutions driving 65.2% of 2021-22 enrolments – a 95.5% decade-long surge. College density has climbed to 30 per lakh eligible population (from 25 in 2012), including 17 women-only universities and 4,470 colleges reinforcing demand-led infrastructure.
"The education investments made in K-12 education system in last 2-3 decades is paying off and more grade 12 completers and higher numbers of female students are opting for higher education," the introduction states, crediting improved access for socio-economic diversity.
Geographic expansion underscores viability in underserved areas, positioning the private sector as the "heavy lifting" force unlike K-12. The report ties this momentum to NEP 2020's equity push, advocating sustained growth to harness India's youth bulge for economic vitality.
