As the economy grows, we not only have to ensure that the momentum is maintained but also that the benefits of such growth are equally distributed. To that end, not only do we have to focus on making the traditional sectors more inclusive, but we also have to make sure that alternative but lucrative sources of income open up to more women.
As such, it is encouraging to see that freelancing has a hugely measurable impact on the finances of women. Women who received training in freelancing have a 28% higher employment rate and see a 53% increase in their income, according to a study done by the Brac Institute of Governance and Development (BIGD).
When one looks at the mode of freelancing, the numbers make sense. The freedom to work in one’s own time together with the fact that freelancing doesn’t require people to leave their homes (things that most women struggle with in our society) makes it ideal for women.
However, there are still constraints in the form of a lack of support, access to digital devices, language barriers, and lack of time. On that note, programs in which women are trained specifically in not only this sector but all kinds of skills should be increased. The government should do all they can to help, including working on removing social barriers and stigma.
To reiterate, we have to ensure that the benefits of our economic development are equally distributed. Both the government and private stakeholders need to work together to increase the skill of women, solve their unemployment, and make the national economy a safe space for them.
Around half of the country is female. We can’t prosper leaving such a great number of people behind.
