Published Paper Details:

"Empowerment refers to the ability to make independent decisions at both collective and individual levels, empowering individuals to gain experience, power, and knowledge to enhance their inherent abilities. Women's empowerment encompasses improvements in the social, political, cultural, and economic circumstances of women. Unfortunately, gender-based discrimination and inequality persist in many third-world countries, including Myanmar. The women of Myanmar have faced obstacles such as military invasions, violence, and armed ethnic conflicts that have hindered their progress. Physical violence against women is wielded as a weapon of war by dominant forces. While Myanmar's government approved a National Strategic Plan for the Advancement of Women in 2013, addressing aspects such as women's welfare, financial and social inclusion, healthcare, education, and poverty reduction, progress towards its goals has been slow. Women in Myanmar remain undervalued and underrepresented across various sectors. The patriarchal societal structure perpetuates gender-based stereotypes, particularly in less developed regions. Women are often underpaid, and their presence in the labor market is significantly lower compared to men. This study aims to underscore the significance of education as a means of empowerment for women and to identify barriers to women's empowerment in Myanmar. An interpretive qualitative methodology, including thematic analysis, was employed. The study concludes that Myanmar's educational policies have inherent weaknesses and lack effective implementation and enforcement. Education's role in human development and women's empowerment remains constrained. The cultural mindset and norms undermine the potential benefits of education. The efficacy of existing educational policies is closely tied to the prevailing culture, emphasizing the importance of fostering a conducive cultural environment."