Gender Mainstreaming Policy

Rationale for the Gender Mainstreaming policy

Gender in higher education, especially in science and technology-based University is a concern that calls for a legitimate point of reference for addressing gender inequalities at all levels; so as to promote quality education for sustainable development. This is important given the significance of science and technology in socio-economic development of societies and the gender stereotyping of science subjects as being masculine. A policy framework is therefore significant in providing guidelines on mainstreaming gender in University initiatives and activities.

The rationale to develop a Gender Mainstreaming policy was based on concerns of gender equity and equality observed in situational analyses conducted in University in 2011, 2016. The surveys revealed a low female representation in the various levels of decision making. For instance, out of the 2011 (twenty-one) membership in the University Council, female representation is only 26%. The low female representation cascades down to committees of council such as; Appointments Committee (22% female and male 88%) Quality Assurance, ICT and Gender Committee (18% female and 82% male). A similar scenerio is evident in the University Management where female representation is 23% and male is 77% male; inspite of the chairperson being female.