Women empowerment: challenges and opportunities for sustainable development goals

Purpose The paper aims to explore gaps in women's empowerment in rural areas, specifically focusing on the alignment of skill development with job creation. The overarching goal is to understand how firms can contribute to achieving the 5th Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) related to women's empowerment through skill development and job creation programs. Design/methodology/approach The paper reviews information available in various formats to analyse the existing landscape of women's empowerment, skill development and job creation in rural areas. It likely involves a literature review synthesising insights from diverse sources, including academic studies, government initiatives and reports from researchers working in the field. The methodology may also encompass an examination of success cases and challenges faced by government programs. Findings Gender disparities: Over 80% of the global impoverished population is in rural areas, with women constituting 70% of this demographic. Challenges in policy implementation: Despite women-centred policies, challenges persist in enabling rural women to recognise the potential of remunerative skills for improving their lives. Linking skills and decision-making: Scholarly work highlights the connection between remunerative skills and decision-making, emphasising the importance of financial independence for women's empowerment. Gap in job opportunities: Lack of industry and commercial setups in rural areas poses a significant challenge, hindering the recognition of the value that skill development can offer. Originality/value The paper reviews information available in various formats to analyse the existing landscape of women's empowerment, skill development and job creation in rural areas. It likely involves a literature review synthesising insights from diverse sources, including academic studies, government initiatives and reports from researchers working in the field. The methodology may also encompass an examination of success cases and challenges faced by government programs.