Higher Education and Women’s Empowerment in Kolar: A Rural-Urban Study

Author(s): Dr. S. Jayalakshmi Priya

Abstract:

This study investigates the impact of higher education on women's empowerment in the Kolar district of Karnataka, India, focusing on the experiences of rural and urban women. The research used a mixed-methods approach, collecting data from 200 women aged 18-40, with an equal number of participants from both rural and urban areas. Key areas of inquiry included educational access, socio-cultural barriers, awareness of gender discrimination, decision-making roles, economic independence, and participation in public and private spheres. The findings show a positive correlation between higher education and women's empowerment. Urban women reported greater benefits from higher education, such as increased self-confidence, financial autonomy, and active involvement in household and community decision-making. They also demonstrated higher awareness of their legal and social rights. Rural women, despite their aspirations for personal growth, face significant challenges such as poor infrastructure, limited access to quality colleges, early marriage, and societal resistance to women pursuing higher education. The study identifies a rural-urban gap in educational opportunities and empowerment outcomes, rooted in deeper socio-cultural attitudes and economic limitations. To address these disparities, the study recommends enhancing educational infrastructure in rural areas, conducting gender-sensitization workshops, and integrating vocational training and life skills into the higher education curriculum. Partnerships between government bodies, NGOs, and educational institutions are crucial for promoting female participation in higher education.

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Pages: 144-149     |    1 View     |    0 Download