CAN EDUCATION SPARK A REVOLUTION? EXPLORING HOW SUSTAINABLE ENTREPRENEURSHIP TRANSFORMS WOMEN’S ROLE IN AZERBAIJAN’S LABOR MARKET

Abstract

This study explores how sustainable entrepreneurship education can support Azerbaijani women in overcoming the systemic barriers they face in accessing and participating in the labour market. While official narratives often highlight progress in gender equality, the reality is more complex. Women in Azerbaijan continue to encounter deeply rooted obstacles ranging from limited access to financing and mentorship to prevailing gender norms that discourage risk-taking and entrepreneurial activity. To address these challenges, this study asks: How and to what extent does entrepreneurship education influence women's empowerment and labour market integration in Azerbaijan? A mixed-methods approach was adopted. Findings show that tailored entrepreneurship education can increase confidence, improve access to opportunities, and encourage sustained labour force participation, especially outside urban centers.