Women are on the rise in higher education but continue to remain absent from the workforce

In recent years, Indian women have made remarkable strides in higher education, yet a stark gap persists in workforce participation. While the All India Survey on Higher Education (AISHE) 2018-19 reveals that women make up only 24% of students in 127 institutions of national importance, their representation in the workforce remains disheartening. Despite a 1,350% increase in female enrolment in higher education in 2017-18, less than 30% of working-age women actively participate in the job market, compared to 80% of men. Cultural norms and traditional expectations continue to confine women to domestic roles, forcing many to abandon their careers for family responsibilities.

Several factors contribute to women's limited participation in the workforce.

Safety Concerns

Many women fear for their safety at work, particularly with rising incidents of sexual harassment in major cities like Mumbai and Delhi. Additionally, some women pursue education without intending to enter the workforce, often influenced by conservative family values.

Skill Gaps

Prolonged absences from work due to childcare responsibilities lead to skill deterioration. This gap can hinder career progression, resulting in many women opting out of the workforce altogether.

To increase women's employment, several strategies can be implemented:

• Enhancing Security: Employers must prioritise creating a safe work environment. This includes training human resource managers to assist women in reporting harassment and increasing vigilance at public transit points to protect women commuters.
• Addressing Skill Deficits: For new mothers, childcare facilities and flexible working arrangements are crucial. Short-term internships or freelance work can help women maintain their skills and build a professional portfolio.
• Family Support: Families must actively support women’s career aspirations, moving away from outdated gender biases to foster a more equitable work environment.

The banking sector offers numerous advantages for women seeking fulfilling careers:

• Career Growth: Banking provides opportunities across various verticals, allowing women to explore fields such as corporate banking, forex, and consumer products. Lateral movement fosters skill development and career advancement.
• Work-Life Balance: Many banks have implemented women-friendly policies, including flexible leave and location transfers, helping employees maintain a healthy work-life balance.
• Compensation and Benefits: The banking industry offers competitive salaries, extensive medical insurance, and performance-based incentives, making it an attractive choice for women.
• Job Stability: Banking-careers are generally secure, offering long-term prospects in a robust sector.

In partnership with Sikkim Manipal University, HDFC Bank offers a one-year full-time Future Bankers program designed to equip participants with essential skills for a career in banking. This program features six months of classroom training and six months of hands-on internship at HDFC Bank. Graduates receive a Post Graduate Diploma in Sales and Relationship Banking and may secure employment with HDFC Bank, paving the way for a rewarding career in finance.

To learn more about the Future Bankers Program, click here.

​​​​​​​Disclaimer: *Terms and conditions apply. The information provided in this article is generic in nature and for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for specific advice in your own circumstances.