Women, work, and technology: The role of generative AI in shaping the social mobility of female entrepreneurs in Pakistan

Authors

  • Dr. Hamida Narijo Assistant Professor, Department of Sociology, University of Sindh Jamshoro, Pakistan Author
  • Dr. Maria Shaikh Associate Professor, Institute of Business Administration, University of Sindh Jamshoro, Pakistan Author
  • Dr. Mehtab Begum Siddiqui Assistant Professor, Institute of Commerce and Management, University of Sindh, Jamshoro, Pakistan Author

Keywords:

Generative AI, Social Mobility, Economic Mobility, Informal Sector, Female Entrepreneurs, Digital Literacy, Smart PLS, Pakistan, Technology Inclusion, Multi-Group Analysis

Abstract

This research analyzes how generative AI helps female entrepreneurs in the informal business sector of Pakistan increase their social and economic mobility. The research examines how business growth, training, expanding the market and social status are influenced by AI adoption, its access, related training and digital literacy. To gather data, female entrepreneurs were asked to complete questionnaires the quantitative approach on and PLS-SEM and MGA analysis was performed using Smart PLS. According to findings, generative AI use helps people become more mobile in both social and economic ways. In addition, the ability to use digital and AI tools contributed to the advantage of AI-driven tools. There is a clear difference in mobility outcomes seen in the MGA results which suggests that some people lack access to or use of AI. The study recommends actions that help women access technology, receive useful training and ensure digital innovation supports them, leading to a better climate for women’s entrepreneurship in informal markets. 

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Published

2025-05-28

Data Availability Statement

The data that support the findings of this study are available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request.