In the context of human resources, understanding the economic activities of men and women is essential for analyzing their contributions to the economy. This subtopic examines how men and women engage in various economic activities, highlighting the differences and similarities in their roles within different sectors.

Economic activities can be broadly classified into three categories: primary, secondary, and tertiary sectors. Both men and women participate in these sectors, but their involvement varies significantly based on societal norms, education, and economic opportunities.

Primary Sector: This sector includes activities related to the extraction and production of natural resources, such as agriculture, fishing, and mining.

• Agriculture: In many rural areas, men predominantly engage in agricultural activities, operating machinery and managing larger plots of land. However, women play a crucial role in farming, particularly in tasks such as planting, weeding, and harvesting. Despite their significant contributions, women's work is often undervalued and not always recognized in official statistics.
• Fishing and Animal Husbandry: In coastal regions, men are typically involved in fishing, while women participate in processing and selling the catch. In animal husbandry, women manage day-to-day care, feeding, and milking of livestock.

Secondary Sector: This sector encompasses manufacturing and industrial activities.

• Manufacturing: Men are often employed in heavy industries and skilled manufacturing jobs, while women may work in light industries, such as textiles and handicrafts. Women’s roles in these sectors have been increasing, particularly with the rise of small-scale and cottage industries where they can work from home.
• Artisan Work: Many women are engaged in traditional crafts and artisanal work, producing handmade goods that can be sold in local markets. This sector provides women with opportunities for entrepreneurship and economic independence.

Tertiary Sector: This sector includes services such as education, healthcare, retail, and hospitality.

• Education and Healthcare: Women have increasingly entered fields such as teaching and nursing, where they can utilize their skills and contribute to community well-being. These professions are often seen as extensions of women’s traditional roles as caregivers and educators.
• Retail and Hospitality: Men often hold managerial positions in retail, while women frequently work as sales staff or in customer service roles. The hospitality industry employs many women, particularly in roles such as waitressing and housekeeping.

The economic participation of women is influenced by various factors:

• Education: Access to education plays a significant role in women's economic activities. Higher educational attainment often leads to better job opportunities and higher wages.
• Social Norms: Cultural expectations and gender roles can restrict women's participation in certain sectors or limit their access to resources and training.
• Access to Resources: Women often face challenges in accessing land, credit, and technology, which can hinder their ability to engage in productive economic activities.

Despite these challenges, the increasing participation of women in economic activities is crucial for national development. Their involvement not only boosts household income but also contributes to overall economic growth. Recognizing and addressing the barriers that women face in the workforce is essential for fostering an inclusive economy that values the contributions of all individuals.