Financial Literacy Challenges and Opportunities – Empowering Slum Women in Pichchamalwatta, Sri Lanka

This study explores the challenges faced by slum women in Pichchamalwatta, Sri Lanka, in accessing and utilizing financial literacy programs. Through in-depth interviews with 20 women, the research investigates how social work interventions can be designed to address these challenges and promote financial empowerment. Limited program awareness, accessibility issues, language barriers, cultural norms, and childcare needs emerged as key obstacles to participation. The findings highlight the need for culturally sensitive programs delivered in the women's preferred languages and offered in convenient locations with flexible scheduling. This research emphasizes the importance of social work in advocating for accessible financial literacy programs tailored to the specific needs and existing knowledge levels of slum women. By implementing such interventions, social workers can empower these women to take control of their finances, improve their economic well-being, and build a more secure future.