Education as an Instrument of Empowerment: Building Women's Capacity Towards Economic Independence

Abstract

Education has a strategic role as an empowerment instrument that can increase the capacity of individuals, especially women, in facing social and economic challenges. This paper discusses how education, both formal and non-formal, is key in building women's critical awareness, skills, and self-confidence to achieve economic independence. Through a qualitative-descriptive approach, the discussion focuses on the dynamics of women's empowerment in various sectors, highlighting the importance of access to relevant, contextual, and gender-based education. The results of the discussion show that education not only expands employment opportunities for women, but also encourages their active participation in economic decision-making at the family and community levels. Therefore, synergy is needed between educational institutions, the government, and the community in creating a learning ecosystem that supports the transformation of women's roles towards sustainable independence and empowerment.