Beyond Income: A Study of Skill Development and Women’s Personal Growth in Visakhapatnam District, Andhra Pradesh, India

Abstract

Background: Skill development is increasingly recognised as a pathway for improving women’s economic opportunities and strengthening their participation in livelihood activities. However, the extent to which vocational training translates into income generation and financial independence remains important to examine at the local level. Aim: This study examines the economic empowerment and employment outcomes associated with skill development among women trainees in Visakhapatnam District, Andhra Pradesh. Methodology: A descriptive research design was adopted. Using purposive sampling, 41 women trainees from the Lions Women Vocational Training Center, Visakhapatnam, were selected. Data were collected through a structured interview schedule covering skill training, employment, income generation, financial independence, and household economic contribution. The data were analysed using JASP. Findings: The findings indicate substantial improvement in the economic position of respondents following skill training. Before training, 73.17% of respondents were unemployed, while 73.17% reported that they had started earning after training. Further, 82.93% agreed or strongly agreed that training improved their financial independence, and 85.36% reported an increased contribution to household income. In addition, 65.85% reported that their current occupation was related to the training received. The analysis also indicated an association between the type of skill training and occupational status. However, the findings also suggest that the transition from training to sustained employment remains incomplete for some participants. Conclusion: Skill development appears to contribute positively to women’s economic empowerment by supporting income generation, financial independence, and household economic contribution. Strengthening employment opportunities and linkages between training and livelihoods may further enhance these outcomes.