Rural areas contribute significantly to employment and economic growth in many countries. Of the developing world’s 5.98 billion people, close to 3.4 billion live in rural areas, and a significant number depend on agriculture for their livelihoods. Yet poverty is more extensive and severe in rural than urban areas.
Skills development is a key to success which improves productivity, employability and earning opportunities for the rural and informal population. It is the bridge between job and workforce.
Today, skill development is considered as an important and indispensable tool for women empowerment; they have shown their ability in community development. Â Kenyan women face the majority of barriers to accessing skills and productive employment. Low income women workers in the informal sector, due to the irregular nature of work and little bargaining power, are amongst the most vulnerable groups in the Kenyan economy.
A large effort is needed to create a skilled workforce for creating an economic prosperity. The aim of skill development, in case of women, is not just simply preparing them for jobs; but also to boost their performance by improving the quality of work in which they are involved in as the drivers of the cottage industry. Looking at the importance of the role women play in the development of a nation, one can sense that there is a long way to go in that direction.
Flourishing rural areas are vital to regional and national development. Education, entrepreneurship, and physical and social infrastructure all play an important role in developing rural regions. Skills are central to improving employability and livelihood opportunities, reducing poverty, enhancing productivity and promoting an environmentally sustainable development.
