Beyond Tuition: Addressing Structural Barriers for Romani Students in Higher Education

Abstract

This article critically examines the effectiveness of Bulgarian national educational policies in promoting educational equity for marginalised Romani communities. While recent policy shifts toward reducing financial barriers to higher education represent a significant step toward increasing access to higher education, they fall short of addressing the broader structural barriers that hinder the educational advancement of Romani students. These barriers include poverty, limited access to quality education, low academic expectations, cultural biases within educational institutions, and scarce opportunities for academic and career development. Drawing on quantitative analysis of enrolment rates, socio-economic indicators among Romani students, and qualitative insights via document analysis and an examination of stakeholder engagement, this paper explores how the Bulgarian education system continues to reproduce social inequalities, particularly within a neoliberal framework that focuses on meritocracy and individual effort rather than structural factors. The article argues that to effectively challenge these barriers and promote social equity, it is essential to adopt holistic and community-centred approaches that empower Romani communities.