Exploring Employment Opportunities and Entrepreneurship in Rural Areas: (A Case Study of Qarshigak Village, Dawlatabad District, Balkh Province)

Abstract

Unemployment and poverty in the rural regions of Afghanistan represent critical economic and social challenges,leading to urban migration and diminished welfare. This study aimed to investigate the role of entrepreneurship in creating job opportunities and fostering local economic development in Qarshi Gak village, Dawlatabad district, Balkh province. Data were collected through a questionnaire from 100 respondents, and statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS software. The results indicated that the lack of infrastructure, limited access to financial resources, and weak technical training are the most significant barriers to entrepreneurial development. Conversely, the majority of youth exhibited a high propensity to start personal businesses and acquire new skills. Furthermore, support from Emirati and local institutions, the provision of basic facilities, and access to sales markets can play an effective role in strengthening the rural economy.Based on the findings, the development of entrepreneurship in rural areas can lead to unemployment reduction, migration prevention, and the strengthening of the local economy, provided that sustained government support and skills training are implemented simultaneously.