By Mahika Shishodia, Head of Social Impact, Lodha
Societal norms, limited access to quality education, and fewer opportunities often create barriers for women, especially those from marginalized backgrounds. Challenges persist in empowering women to achieve stable professional growth, both in hyperlocal (neighborhood) and urban markets.
A holistic approach to education that emphasizes both academic and personal development and relies on transformative teaching can well help women overcome these obstacles and build enduring careers. This methodology recognizes that education extends beyond academics to include overall personality development, skill enhancement, and preparation for life’s challenges. Significantly, it involves raising awareness about financial independence and security, empowering women to challenge societal norms and pursue long-term career goals.
Let’s understand how by offering education that integrates academic learning with life skills, women can develop the confidence and competence needed among women to navigate the job markets effectively.
Focus on Neighborhood market jobs
A particularly promising strategy for breaking down career barriers is the focus on hyperlocal employment opportunities. Local sectors such as logistics, retail, healthcare, and education present growing opportunities that women can tap into with the right training. Connecting women with businesses and employers within their communities allowsthemtobalancepersonalandprofessionalresponsibilitiesmoreeasily.
Tailored vocational programs that match local job market demands with women’s skills can ensure they are job-ready, promoting both career growth and economic stability.
Community-based skill development is crucial for this approach.
Programs designed to teach technical skills, such as digital literacy and financial management, as well as trades relevant to the local job market, can help women enter competitive industries and sustain their careers. Support for micro-entrepreneurship also plays a vital role, as it empowers women to start their own businesses within their communities. By offering entrepreneurship training and creating support networks, women can build small enterprises that cater to local needs, fostering self-reliance and economic independence.
Tackle practical barriers to employment
Many women face challenges such as the lack of affordable childcare and limited transportation options, which can disrupt their ability to maintain consistent careers. Community-based childcare solutions and improved transportation access can help women stay in the workforce, while flexible work arrangements— such as flexible schedules, part-time work, or remote opportunities—enable them to balance personal responsibilities with their careers. Encouraging employers to adopt such arrangements can significantly enhance women’s workforce participation.
Providing socio-emotional well-being support
Emotional and psychological support is also an essential component of transformative teaching. Many women struggle with confidence due to societal pressures and gender expectations. Mentorship programs and personal development workshops can help women regain their self-assurance and realize their potential. Exposure to successful role models can inspire women to pursue ambitious career goals and aim higher.
For teaching to drive social change effectively, it must be adaptable and responsive to the evolving needs of women. Combining technical skills, life skills, and emotional support equips women to navigate the job market and remain resilient in the face of challenges.
Job placement support
Practical assistance through hyperlocal job placement initiatives can further connect women with suitable employment opportunities, offering both professional growth and stability. Support networks for working women can also foster resilience and persistence by providing a platform for sharing experiences and offering mutual assistance.
Career development
The right approach to education and career development has a dual impact. It not only helps individual women overcome their challenges but also positively influences their communities. When women achieve stable careers, they serve as role models, inspiring others to challenge traditional gender roles and pursue their ambitions. This ripple effect can drive broader social change, particularly in areas with low female workforce participation.
