Socio - economic status of women employees in garment industry: special reference to Dharga town

Abstract

The garment industry, which plays a major contribution to the Sri Lankan economy, is a very famous sector in many parts of Sri Lanka, and many women are finding career opportunities in the sector. Therefore, this research on women workers involved in the garment industry is necessary. Thus, the main objective of this study is to identify the socio-economic status of women employees engaging in the garment manufacturing industry in Dharga Town. To achieve this objective, it has sub-objectives such as identifying the social status of women employees involved in the garment manufacturing industry, identifying the economic status, and identifying the challenges they face. For this study, 150 women employees were selected as a sample using the yeoman method among 241 women employees employed in three selected factories in Dharga town. Further, this study is based on primary data. Accordingly, data has been collected through structured questionnaires and discussions. These data were analyzed descriptively and with a multiple regression model using SPSS data software. As far as the social status of women employees is concerned, they are between 18 and 70 years of age, and most of them have completed an ordinary level of education. They are seen to have an improved quality of living standard and social status due to engaging in this industry. Also, factors such as working experience and education level have, over time, a significant impact on the income of women employees. And as far as economic status is concerned, fewer of them are servers and more of them are borrowers. Also, they face professional, physical, and social challenges. Therefore, this study suggests that the government and employee welfare associations can provide opportunities for employees to improve their socioeconomic status by providing them with effective work support.