Main Article Content
Abstract
This integrative review examines how adult literacy programmes contribute to women’s empowerment in rural Enugu State. Using Kabeer’s resources, agency, and achievements framework and Freirean conscientization, it synthesises studies, policy texts, and programme reports from 2004 to 2025. Evidence from Nsukka, Enugu East, Uzo-Uwani, Oji River, Enugu North, and statewide female-learner samples shows that basic and functional literacy improve reading, numeracy, market access, savings groups, household bargaining, rights awareness, and civic participation. Gains are constrained by underfunding of the Enugu State Agency for Mass Literacy, Adult and Non-Formal Education, irregular facilitator pay, thin rural coverage, household labour burdens, and weak post-literacy links to credit. Literacy is necessary but not sufficient: outcomes are stronger when classes are joined to livelihood skills, group savings, gender-responsive pedagogy, and political commitment.