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@article{183476,
        author = {Hemantha kumar K. P},
        title = {Education for Empowerment: Social Work Initiatives to Improve Rural Literacy},
        journal = {International Journal of Innovative Research in Technology},
        year = {2025},
        volume = {12},
        number = {3},
        pages = {1721-1723},
        issn = {2349-6002},
        url = {https://ijirt.org/article?manuscript=183476},
        abstract = {Rural literacy remains a critical challenge for sustainable development and social equity in many countries, particularly in the Global South. While urban areas often benefit from better infrastructure, trained educators, and technological resources, rural communities face systemic barriers that perpetuate cycles of illiteracy and poverty. Literacy is not merely the ability to read and write—it is a foundational skill that influences health outcomes, employment opportunities, civic participation, and overall quality of life. The United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4) calls for inclusive and equitable quality education for all, yet achieving this target requires focused interventions in rural areas where educational deprivation is most acute.
Social work, with its emphasis on empowerment, participation, and social justice, has a unique role in promoting rural literacy. By working directly with communities, social workers address both structural and cultural barriers, mobilize local resources, and implement innovative literacy programs. This paper examines the socio-economic and cultural determinants of rural illiteracy, reviews relevant literature, and analyses evidence-based interventions from India and abroad. The discussion integrates case studies, data-driven evidence, and policy analysis to highlight how social work can transform rural literacy outcomes. Recommendations focus on strengthening community-based approaches, integrating technology, ensuring gender equity, and enhancing public–private partnerships.},
        keywords = {Rural Literacy, Social Work, Education for Empowerment, Community Development, India, SDG 4, Gender Equity},
        month = {August},
        }