BREAKING BARRIERS, BUILDING FUTURES: THE TRANSFORMATIVE IMPACT OF EDUCATION ON WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT IN MALAKAND DIVISION, PAKISTAN

Abstract

This study investigates women's empowerment through education in Malakand Division, Pakistan, addressing a literature gap by comprehensively examining the multifaceted impacts of education. The literature review synthesizes evidence on education breaking cultural barriers, enhancing economic opportunities, improving health, fostering leadership, addressing social challenges, building resilience, and driving community development. The researcher's contribution lies in providing a holistic understanding of education's transformative potential across these dimensions. The study, with a cross-sectional design and a sample of 400 educated women, employs statistical analyses revealing a significant positive association between women's education and empowerment indicators. The findings underscore the study's importance in informing tailored policies and interventions for Malakand Division, considering its unique cultural and socio-economic context. Policy recommendations include initiatives to enhance educational access, address cultural biases, promote economic independence, integrate health and leadership programs, and foster digital literacy and sports.