LANSING — A state agency held the Moving Michigan Males Forward conference Wednesday, part of a push to enroll more men in higher education.

Data from the state shows that college enrollment is about 55% female and 45% male and that younger boys struggle with academic achievement more often than girls.

Experts say that the disparities in educational achievement lead to fewer men being able to serve in high-wage or skilled positions.

“There are more young men who are disconnected from the labor market and from the education system in Michigan than elsewhere,” said Richard Reeves, president of the American Institute for Boys and Men.

The event was held by the Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement and Potential, or MiLEAP . The department was launched in 2023 and seeks

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