How Can Vocational Education Drive Poverty Alleviation and Career Growth in Rural China? Evidence from Low-Income Areas

Vocational education plays a crucial role in career development and poverty alleviation, especially in low-income rural areas of China. This study uses large-scale survey data from Central and Western China to assess its impact on employment, income, and social capital, employing propensity score matching (PSM) and regression analysis. The findings show significant improvements in economic and social outcomes, with notable benefits for women and those in the western region. Three key mechanisms—skill enhancement, expanded employment opportunities, and improved social capital—are identified as pathways linking vocational education to poverty alleviation and career growth. The results provide strong evidence for policymakers to optimize vocational education strategies, contributing to sustainable rural revitalization and addressing both immediate economic needs and long-term career development.