Abstract
Work-and-study is an arrangement under which individuals engage in paid employment while studying. Hence, it is possible to obtain practical experience while pursuing educational goals. Such a model is quite commonly followed to reduce the cost of education and ensure the best preparation for career work. In this way, balancing work and studies means earning but also greater overall satisfaction. This study investigated the balancing strategies that Pakistani married women in Karachi adopt to achieve balance in terms of academic, professional and personal responsibilities. In this study, ten faculty members and five department heads from five universities in Karachi were selected. Semi structured interviews were conducted for data collection and thematic analysis was performed. The findings of this study show that the primary challenges women face are time limitations, financial strain and gender disparity. The findings highlight the need to address these problems to enhance morale, job satisfaction and commitment while reducing workplace stress among women. In summary, the study revealed a need for special interventions that might eliminate time and monetary barriers for working women. In-depth accounts from respondents and departmental heads offer valuable recommendations to institutions and policymakers on creating a conducive environment.
Keywords: Boundary Theory, Challenges Working Women, Heads Perception, Spillover Model, Work-study Balance.