Characteristics of Rural Women in Al-Dawar District (39)

Abstract

Rural women constitute an integral part of agricultural communities and play a crucial role in economic and social development. This study aims to examine and analyze the demographic, social, and economic characteristics of women in rural areas, with a particular focus on educational attainment, employment opportunities, and access to healthcare. The research adopts a descriptive-analytical methodology, relying on questionnaires and field interviews with a sample of rural women in the study area. The study found that the most pressing issues facing rural women were economic problems (37%), followed by agricultural and health-related issues (25% and 16%, respectively), and social problems (22%). It also revealed that rural women tend to seek help from relatives, friends, and community organizations to cope with these challenges. A small proportion (17%) of them work in agricultural extension, while 12.5% sought assistance via the internet. The evaluation of agricultural extension workers' contribution to solving rural family problems was found to be minimal, with only 6% perceiving their role as effective. The results further highlight that rural women face significant challenges such as low educational levels, limited economic opportunities, and inadequate healthcare services. Moreover, cultural norms and traditions have a direct influence on their social and economic roles. The study recommends improving access to education and vocational training for rural women, enhancing healthcare services, and supporting small-scale projects to strengthen their role in sustainable development