Empowering Village Women through CVET: Identifying Challenges, Solutions, and Motivating Factors in Tamil Nadu's Coastal Seaweed Farming

Computerized Vocational Educational Training (CVET) holds promise for empowering village women in-volved in seaweed cultivation in Tamil Nadu by improving access to learning resources and enhancing digital literacy. The first study explores the challenges faced by women in sea-weed farming, focusing on qualitative data gathered through focus group discussions with 20 women from three different villages. Three main categories of challenges emerged: health, financial, and environmental issues, along with potential solutions. The second study investigates aspiring factors that promote engagement in seaweed cultivation. Moreover, analysis revealed the importance of cultural nuances that impact women's success. Recommendations for addressing these challenges and considerations for future research are discussed for incorporation into CVET courses. By aligning with SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 5 (Gender Equality), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 14 (Life Below Water), this approach not only fosters educational and gender equity but also promotes sustainable environmental practices in coastal communities.