Education as a Catalyst for Women Empowerment: Insights from Pakistan and Malaysia

Abstract

Education is universally acknowledged as a fundamental driver of women empowerment, fostering social, economic, and political advancements. This study critically examines the role of education as a catalyst for empowering women in Pakistan and Malaysia, two nations with shared cultural and religious roots but distinct socio-political landscapes. Using a comparative approach, the research explores the influence of educational policies, societal norms, and religious interpretations on women’s access to education and their subsequent empowerment. Primary data is drawn from surveys and interviews, supplemented by secondary data from government reports and academic studies. The findings emphasize the transformative potential of education and advocate for targeted reforms to bridge existing gaps in Pakistan, while drawing lessons from Malaysia’s progress.