Role of Religion and Spirituality in Shaping Diasporic Student Identity

This study explores the influence of religion and spirituality on the construction of diasporic student identity in education. Diasporic students are caught in intricate negotiations of self-identity influenced by culture, religion and spirituality in a world that is becoming more globalised. The present study sought to explore the association and predictive utility of religion and spirituality in diasporic identity among the target group. The quantitative research approach was followed and the data were gathered by administering standardised scales on religion, spirituality and diasporic identity from 200 students of the University of Burdwan. Descriptive statistics, t-test, correlation, regression and ANOVA were used to analyse data. The results indicated a strong positive correlation among religion, spirituality and identity formation (r = 0.62, p < 0.01) and that religion and spirituality significantly predicted diasporic identity (β = 0.62, p < 0.001). There were no significant gender differences, but the duration of stay was significant. The study recommends that religion and spirituality are critical dimensions of identity that offer meaning and a sense of belonging. The results suggest a new consideration of culturally responsive educational practices in support of the identity development of diasporic students.