Home Economics Education and Female Empowerment in Rural Communities of Anambra State

This study examines the relationship between Home Economics Education and female empowerment in rural communities of Anambra State, South East Nigeria. Female empowerment, understood as the enhancement of women's capacity to make strategic life choices, is increasingly linked to the quality of vocational and life skills education received. The study adopts a descriptive survey design, targeting women aged 18 to 45 in Orumba North and Ayamelum local government areas who attended secondary school. Data were collected from 270 respondents using a structured questionnaire. Objectives include assessing the level of Home Economics Education attained by respondents, determining their current income-generating activities, and examining the role of acquired skills in their economic independence. Recent literature from South East Nigeria links vocational competencies gained through Home Economics to higher rates of self-employment and household decision-making among rural women. Data were analysed using mean scores, standard deviation, and chi-square. The Empowerment Theory anchors this study, recognising that access to knowledge and skills is foundational to individual agency. Findings are expected to reveal a significant relationship between Home Economics competencies and women's economic and social empowerment. Recommendations target the Anambra State Ministry of Women Affairs and Education to expand Home Economics adult education programmes in rural areas. Keywords: Home Economics Education, female empowerment, rural women, Anambra State, skills acquisition.