Fuzzy Synthetic Evaluation of the Barriers and Sustainable Pathways for Women During the Transition from Higher Education to Empowerment in Pakistan

Muhammad Qasim Rana (), Noreen Saher, Angela Lee and Zeba Shabbir ()
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Muhammad Qasim Rana: School of Built Environment, University College of Estate Management, Reading RG1 4BS, UK
Noreen Saher: Department of Sociology and Anthropology, Faculty of Social Sciences, International Islamic University, Islamabad 44000, Pakistan
Angela Lee: School of Built Environment, University College of Estate Management, Reading RG1 4BS, UK
Zeba Shabbir: National University of Science and Technology, Islamabad 44000, Pakistan

Social Sciences, 2024, vol. 13, issue 12, 1-18

Abstract: This study explores the barriers that impede women’s transition from higher education to empowerment in Pakistan. It uses Fuzzy Synthetic Evaluation (FSE). By integrating qualitative and quantitative data, this research identifies six primary barriers: sociocultural values, family-related issues, freedom and mobility, violence and harassment, economic factors, and gendered norms. Data were collected through a survey of 500 women across various regions of Pakistan, with a valid response rate of 79.8% (N = 399), providing a comprehensive analysis of the most significant obstacles to women’s empowerment. The findings reveal the intricate and pervasive nature of these challenges, with sociocultural values, family-related issues, and restrictions on freedom and mobility emerging as the most critical. These traditional norms and patriarchal structures (index 3.942) significantly hinder women’s educational and professional progress. Family-related issues (index 3.840) and restrictions on freedom and mobility (index 3.820) also play a substantial role. Violence and harassment (index 3.705) further deter women from pursuing their goals, while economic factors (index 3.695) and gendered norms (index 3.631) contribute to the persistent gender disparities. This study concludes with a call to action, emphasising the urgent need to address these barriers. To boost women’s empowerment and advance gender equality in Pakistan, comprehensive solutions comprising targeted interventions, societal change, and policy reforms are required. By prioritising these challenges, stakeholders can develop practical solutions. This research provides invaluable insights for policymakers, educators, and advocates, urging them to work towards creating an inclusive and equitable environment for women’s advancement.

Keywords: gender inclusion; gender equality; higher education; career progression (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: A B N P Y80 Z00 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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