EFFECT OF SKILL ACQUISITION PROGRAMMES ON WOMEN'S ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT IN AWKA NORTH LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF ANAMBRA STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

This study examined the effect of skill acquisition programmes on women’s economic empowerment in Awka North Local Government Area of Anambra State. Specifically, it investigated the effect of vocational skills training on income generation, the influence of entrepreneurial skills acquisition on self-employment opportunities, and the relationship between skill acquisition programmes and women’s economic independence. The study was anchored on Human Capital Theory and adopted a descriptive survey research design. A sample of 400 women who participated in various skill acquisition programmes was selected for the study. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical techniques. The findings revealed that participation in skill acquisition programmes significantly improved women’s income-generating capacity, enhanced self-employment opportunities, and strengthened their economic independence. Women who acquired vocational and entrepreneurial skills were better positioned to establish small businesses, contribute to household income, and make independent economic decisions. The study concludes that skill acquisition programmes are effective tools for promoting women’s economic empowerment and sustainable livelihoods in rural communities. It recommends increased government investment in skill acquisition centres, improved access to start-up capital, and strengthened entrepreneurship training and post-training support for beneficiaries.