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Going the distance: Hybrid vocational training for women in Nepal

Author

Listed:
  • Janzen, Sarah
  • Magnan, Nicholas
  • Mullally, Conner
  • Sharma, Shruti
  • Shrestha, Bhola

Abstract

We test whether access to a hybrid distance learning program can expand professional training opportunities where women’s labor force participation is low. Qualified women were randomly selected to train as community animal health workers through either a traditional training course requiring 35 consecutive days away from home or a distance learning course requiring two shorter stays plus a tablet-based home curriculum. Distance learning increases training completion rates from 30% to 51%. Distance learning trainees are at least as knowledgeable and skilled as their traditionally trained counterparts, with similar labor force participation and long-run job performance.

Suggested Citation

  • Janzen, Sarah & Magnan, Nicholas & Mullally, Conner & Sharma, Shruti & Shrestha, Bhola, 2025. "Going the distance: Hybrid vocational training for women in Nepal," Journal of Development Economics, Elsevier, vol. 174(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:deveco:v:174:y:2025:i:c:s0304387824001639
    DOI: 10.1016/j.jdeveco.2024.103414
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