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8.4.7
life
How lCTs enhance rural women's social welfare and quality of
Respondents were asked to illustrate any notable changes they had
observed amongst women since the introduction of leTs in their lives. This
question aimed to identify ways and means in which ICTs play a role in the
social welfare and the quality of life of rural women.
At community level, the radio allows women to have ownership of the
media. According to the NCRF respondent, media plays a big role in
development, and those who can access and control it are able to contribute
to local development. Women use community radio as a participatory media
that enables social change and economic development.
The ALIN-EA respondent reported that through capacity bUilding, women are
able to access appropriate information and establish small businesses,
access markets, and access information on health, particularly nutrition for
children.
The Women'snet respondents reported that leTs have facilitated access to
information. Additionally, leTS have enhanced social welfare standards in
the following ways:
• "Overcoming technophobia"
• "Capacity building in basic computer skills"
• "Access to the job market"
• "Self confidence. After participation in conferences, most women are
now more comfortable when talking about issues affecting their lives"
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