At Adult Learning Wales, we believe that education is one of the most powerful tools for change. On International Women’s Day 2025, we celebrate the achievements of women and girls across Wales while recognising the challenges that still prevent too many from accessing learning and fulfilling their potential.

Across Wales, many women continue to face deep-rooted barriers to education, employment, and personal development. Many juggle work, family, and unpaid care responsibilities, making it difficult to find time for their own learning. Financial pressures, limited access to transport or childcare, and a lack of confidence can often hold women back. Digital exclusion is an increasing challenge, particularly as more opportunities move online, and for those from migrant or minority ethnic communities, language barriers can make learning even harder to access. Gendered expectations also continue to shape the career and study choices available to women, limiting their options and potential.

At Adult Learning Wales, we are working tirelessly to break down these barriers and ensure that education is accessible to every woman, at every stage of life. Through flexible and community-based learning, we support women to build skills, confidence, and independence. We provide free and low-cost courses in essential skills, digital literacy, employability, and vocational training, helping women take meaningful steps towards further education or employment. Our flexible, part-time, and online learning options allow women to study in ways that fit around their lives. We work closely with partners across the Adult Community Learning (ACL) sector to create safe, welcoming spaces where women can access education without fear or judgment. 

Every day, we see the life-changing impact of education. Women returning to learning after years away, mothers and carers gaining qualifications and entering the workforce, women improving their digital skills to secure new opportunities. Through learning, they gain more than just knowledge and skills — they gain confidence, independence, and the ability to empower their own futures.

This #IWD2025, we celebrate the educators, volunteers, and community leaders who make this possible—and every woman and girl who takes a step forward in their learning journey. Together, we can continue to champion women’s education, break down barriers, and create a future where learning is truly for everyone.