Indian Students Embrace Part-Time Jobs in Europe, but Face Stigma Seeking Similar opportunities back home
Wages for part-time unskilled labor in India tend to be lower than those in Europe, making part-time work less appealing for students who can depend on parental support for their expenses
By : Guest Post
Update: 2025-07-21 11:54 GMT
In many European societies, part-time jobs such as retail work, positions in cafes, or roles as cleaners are commonly accepted and often encouraged for students, irrespective of their socioeconomic backgrounds. These jobs are considered valuable for several reasons: they provide essential work experience, help build a sense of responsibility, and foster independence among young individuals.
In contrast, a similar sentiment is not as widely embraced in India. Here, manual labor jobs can carry a social stigma, often viewed as beneath one’s status or indicative of financial hardship. This perception discourages students from seeking such employment opportunities, which could offer them both experience and financial independence.
Studying and living abroad, particularly in Europe, tends to be quite costly. As a result, many Indian students pursue part-time work to help cover their living expenses and gain financial autonomy. Conversely, the cost of living in India is generally lower, and until recently, the financial pressures on students to work during their studies were not as significant for a large segment of the population.
Additionally, wages for part-time unskilled labor in India tend to be lower than those in Europe, making part-time work less appealing for students who can depend on parental support for their expenses.
In Indian society, parents often emphasize academic success, with the expectation that their children will secure stable, high-paying jobs upon graduation. As such, part-time work can sometimes be perceived as a distraction from studies or an unhealthy influence, leading to discouragement from families. The Indian education system, known for its rigorous schedules and competitive atmosphere, also presents challenges, leaving students with limited time to balance academics and part-time work.
However, Indian students need to consider part-time jobs. Engaging in such work can provide valuable experience and might help students discover their interests and talents. Moreover, they can gain a deeper understanding of their parents' struggles to earn a living. By normalizing part-time employment in Indian society, we can empower students to develop skills that extend beyond the classroom and encourage a more balanced approach to education and work.
To create a supportive environment for part-time employment, schools and universities could implement flexible schedules or offer courses that allow students to manage both work and studies more effectively. Furthermore, initiatives that highlight the success stories of students balancing work and academics can help shift societal perceptions.
By fostering a culture that values both education and practical experience, we not only prepare students for their future careers but also instill a sense of resilience and adaptability. Ultimately, encouraging part-time work among students can contribute to their overall personal and professional development while helping to bridge the gap between educational achievements and real-world challenges.
This article is authored by Akshara Ramachandran as part of internship program with Deccan Chronicle.