Investing in the Second Decade: Policy Pathways Linking Youth Economic Empowerment and Social Impact
India is home to one of the world’s largest youth populations, with over 350 million young people aged 15–24. While this demographic represents immense potential for driving economic growth and social change, young women remain disproportionately excluded from education, skills training, and formal employment.
Investing in youth economic empowerment, particularly through skills and livelihood programs, has been shown to create a ripple effect across families and communities. When young women gain access to market-relevant skills, entrepreneurship opportunities, and financial literacy, they are better positioned to delay marriage, make informed decisions about their reproductive health, and invest in their children’s education and well-being.
This Capstone will tackle three critical questions via evidence mapping, data analysis, policy evaluation and more:
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How does youth economic empowerment enhance young women’s opportunities, voice, and agency?
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In what ways do access to skills, livelihoods, and entrepreneurship strengthen decision-making power within households and communities?
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What are the other social benefits of economically empowering women?