Diantara Tradisi dan Modernitas Dilema Memilih Bekerja atau Melanjutkan Pendidikan bagi Perempuan Muda di Desa Aeknauli Kec Sipahutar

Abstract

Gender marginalization remains a significant social issue in Indonesia, especially for young women in rural areas. Patriarchal traditions and values often limit women's roles to the domestic sphere, while modernity opens up new opportunities through access to information and changing perspectives. This study aims to understand the dilemma experienced by young women in Aeknauli Village in deciding between continuing higher education or working and getting married, considering the influence of tradition, modernity, and gender marginalization. This study uses a qualitative approach with a phenomenological method. Data were obtained through in-depth interviews, observations, and documentation of ten young women who had completed secondary education, using purposive sampling techniques. Data analysis was conducted through interpretation of the subjective meanings of the informants' experiences in facing these dilemmas. The results show that tradition, patriarchal culture, and economic limitations remain the main obstacles for young women to continue their higher education. Families and communities tend to prioritize women's domestic roles, so education is considered less important. However, modernity through the internet and social media has begun to shape a new awareness of the importance of education and women's independence. This study concludes that the dilemma faced by young women in Aeknauli Village reflects the tension between traditional values and the influence of modernity, thus requiring family support, inclusive education policies, and the role of the media to empower young women.