Impact of Non-Formal Education Programmes on Women Empowerment for Community Development in Orlu and Orsu, Imo State

The study examined the impact of non-formal education programmes on women’s empowerment for community development in Orlu and Orsu Local Government Areas of Imo State. Three research questions, and one null hypothesis guided the study. The study adopted a descriptive survey design with a population of 969 women participants in adult and non-formal education centres in the area of study. The sample size of 524 respondents was selected using a proportionate sampling technique and the research instrument was a self-structured questionnaire titled “Impact of Non-Formal Education Programmes on Women Empowerment Questionnaire” (INEPWEQ). The statistical tools used for data analysis were percentage, mean, and z-test. A reliability coefficient of 0.73 was obtained using Cronbach alpha method. The findings of the study revealed that literacy education has equipped women with reading, writing and numeracy skills; enabled them to know their fundamental human rights; ignited their interest and motivation to learn new things; improved their participation in decision making processes in their families and various communities. Also, the finding revealed that vocational education has enabled women to secure new employment or careers; increased their income earning chances; made them self-reliant and independent; and reduced their poverty level. The findings further disclosed that health education has enabled women to adequately maintain good sanitation, increased their awareness of disease prevention and other related health issues, improved their knowledge on maternal mortality, and builds their family’s nutrition. The study recommended among others that state and local government authorities should adequately provide funds meant for the non-formal education sector.