Literacy and Reconfiguration of Agency in Rural Ivory Coast: Between Capital Dynamics and the Social Transformation of Women in Alépé and Bondoukou

The study examines how literacy influences the mindset and autonomy of rural women in Alépé and Bondoukou in Côte d'Ivoire. Drawing on a theoretical model inspired by Bourdieu's concepts of capital, Granovetter's social entanglement, and Sen's capabilities, this research analyzes the social applications of reading and writing as tools for action. A qualitative approach was implemented, based on eight individual interviews, four focus groups, and two interviews with supervisors. The results indicate that literacy strengthens cultural capital through the mastery of reading, writing, and mathematics, and then facilitates its transformation into economic capital through the management of mutual savings funds, access to microcredit, and entrepreneurial spirit. Ultimately, this situation produces symbolic capital, consolidating the recognition and social involvement of women in their various communities. Thus, literacy emerges as a tool for empowerment in rural areas.