The Effects of The Socioeconomic Factors on Women's Career Advancement in Tertiary Institutions

This study explores the effects of socioeconomic factors on women's career advancement in tertiary institutions, focusing on the barriers and potential solutions that influence their progression in academia. Despite progress in gender equality, women remain underrepresented in senior academic and administrative roles, with socioeconomic status (SES) playing a critical role in shaping their career trajectories. Financial constraints, cultural norms, and institutional biases were identified as significant obstacles that disproportionately affect women, particularly those from marginalized socioeconomic backgrounds. Women from low-income households face challenges in accessing advanced degrees and research funding, while cultural expectations often prioritize caregiving roles over professional development. Institutional barriers, such as lack of childcare support and flexible work arrangements, further hinder women's career progression. However, targeted interventions, including mentorship programs, financial support, and policy reforms, have shown promise in promoting gender equity. The study also highlights the intersectionality of gender and socioeconomic status, revealing that women from marginalized groups, such as women of color and those from rural areas, face compounded challenges. Geographic disparities between developed and developing countries further exacerbate these barriers, emphasizing the need for culturally sensitive policies and international collaboration. Using a systematic literature review methodology, this study synthesizes findings from peer-reviewed articles published between 2010 and 2023, identifying key themes such as financial barriers, cultural norms, institutional biases, and intersectionality. The findings underscore the importance of addressing these barriers through comprehensive and multifaceted approaches, including mentorship, financial aid, and institutional reforms. The study contributes to the existing body of knowledge by providing evidence-based insights and actionable recommendations for policymakers, institutions, and researchers. It also identifies gaps in the literature, such as the need for more research on the intersection of gender, socioeconomic status, and other identities, as well as the long-term impact of gender equity policies. By fostering inclusive environments and implementing targeted interventions, tertiary institutions can create pathways for women to achieve leadership roles and contribute meaningfully to academia.

This study explores the effects of socioeconomic factors on women's career advancement in tertiary institutions, focusing on the barriers and potential solutions that influence their progression in academia. Despite progress in gender equality, women remain underrepresented in senior academic and administrative roles, with socioeconomic status (SES) playing a critical role in shaping their career trajectories. Financial constraints, cultural norms, and institutional biases were identified as significant obstacles that disproportionately affect women, particularly those from marginalized socioeconomic backgrounds. Women from low-income households face challenges in accessing advanced degrees and research funding, while cultural expectations often prioritize caregiving roles over professional development. Institutional barriers, such as lack of childcare support and flexible work arrangements, further hinder women's career progression. However, targeted interventions, including mentorship programs, financial support, and policy reforms, have shown promise in promoting gender equity. The study also highlights the intersectionality of gender and socioeconomic status, revealing that women from marginalized groups, such as women of color and those from rural areas, face compounded challenges. Geographic disparities between developed and developing countries further exacerbate these barriers, emphasizing the need for culturally sensitive policies and international collaboration. Using a systematic literature review methodology, this study synthesizes findings from peer-reviewed articles published between 2010 and 2023, identifying key themes such as financial barriers, cultural norms, institutional biases, and intersectionality. The findings underscore the importance of addressing these barriers through comprehensive and multifaceted approaches, including mentorship, financial aid, and institutional reforms. The study contributes to the existing body of knowledge by providing evidence-based insights and actionable recommendations for policymakers, institutions, and researchers. It also identifies gaps in the literature, such as the need for more research on the intersection of gender, socioeconomic status, and other identities, as well as the long-term impact of gender equity policies. By fostering inclusive environments and implementing targeted interventions, tertiary institutions can create pathways for women to achieve leadership roles and contribute meaningfully to academia.