Empowering Former Women Migrant Workers: Enhancing Socio-Economic Opportunities and Inclusion for Sustainable Development

Abstract

This research aims to design and implement participatory empowerment programs for former migrant workers, with a focus on non-formal socio-economic initiatives. Utilizing the Participatory Learning and Action (PLA) method in Cilacap Regency, Central Java Province, Indonesia, the study collected data through observations, dialogues, and Participatory Decision-Making (PDM). Purposive sampling involved selecting subjects from the village government, community leaders, and former women migrant workers belonging to entrepreneurial groups. The participatory analysis approach was used to identify, categorize, and prioritize essential and strategic initiatives. The research findings led to the development of non-formal education programs for former women migrant workers, aimed at fostering creativity and innovation in entrepreneurship, administrative management, digital accounting, product quality improvement, product innovation, labeling and packaging, and promotion management with digital marketing. Collaborative efforts between village and district governments, academics, and the community of former women migrant workers were emphasized in planning and implementing these creative socio-economic non-formal education programs. The programs were tailored to address the unique problems, needs, and local resources of the community of former women migrant workers, providing them with the knowledge, motivation, and skills to independently operate economic ventures and improve the well-being of their families.

Received: 1 September 2023 / Accepted: 26 November 2023 / Published: 5 January 2024