Study on the Dilemma of Rural Women’s Access to Education in China and its Legal Protection

Abstract

This paper explores the multidimensional challenges faced by rural women in China in accessing education, revealing the root causes of the intersection between urban-rural educational inequality and gender discrimination. While legal and policy reforms have led to some improvements—particularly in the realm of compulsory education, where enrollment rates for rural girls have increased—significant barriers remain, especially in higher education and vocational training. These challenges are rooted in various structural issues, including disparities in educational resources, cultural capital deficiencies, and the persistence of traditional gender roles, all of which disproportionately affect rural women. The paper offers an in-depth analysis of these factors, highlighting the inadequacies of current legal frameworks and the practical difficulties in their implementation. It proposes strategies to improve the situation, such as enhancing legal enforcement, increasing state investment in rural education, addressing societal and cultural biases through gender equality education, and expanding vocational and lifelong learning opportunities tailored to rural women’s needs. The findings suggest that only through a comprehensive approach—integrating legal, policy, and cultural initiatives—can rural women’s educational rights be effectively protected, leading to more equitable educational outcomes, reduced gender disparities, and fostering overall social progress in China.