LITERACY AND LIBERATION: THE EMPOWERING ROLE OF EDUCATION FOR MUSLIM WOMEN IN MALDA

Abstract

The study, "Literacy and Liberation: The Empowering Role of Education for Muslim Women in Malda," investigates the impact of literacy and education on the empowerment of Muslim women in the Malda region. Utilizing a comprehensive approach, the research explored key dimensions such as access to information, skill development, access to microfinance and funding, leadership skill development, and ongoing personal development. The study employed statistical analyses, including correlation coefficients and model summaries, to discern the relationships between literacy education and various facets of empowerment. Researcher undertook 214 respondents from Malda and adopted descriptive statistics method. The findings revealed a strong positive correlation between literacy programs and empowerment dimensions, highlighting the transformative potential of education. Specifically, literacy education was shown to significantly contribute to the creation of entrepreneurial opportunities, leadership skill development, and ongoing personal development among Muslim women in Malda. The results underscored the multifaceted nature of empowerment, encompassing economic independence, decision-making abilities, and social participation. These conclusions have important implications for policymakers and practitioners, suggested the need for holistic educational approaches that extend beyond basic literacy. The study advocated for ongoing support and a sustained commitment to education, emphasizing its enduring impact on the personal and professional development of Muslim women in the Malda region. Overall, the research contributes valuable insights to the discourse on education, empowerment, and social change in diverse and culturally specific contexts.

Keywords: Literacy, Education, Empowerment, Muslim Women, Malda, Entrepreneurship, Access to Information, Skill Development, Microfinance.