Gender-Inclusive Higher Education in Tanzania : Transforming Academia

Abstract

Whilst there is an extensive body of research exploring the barriers to gender equality and female empowerment in high-income states, there are far fewer systematic analyses within lower-income settings. This book draws on extensive empirical data to analyse gender mainstreaming and gender transformative actions in Tanzanian higher education. The book maps the practical landscape of gender mainstreaming across 14 universities in Tanzania, and the theoretical landscape of African theories of masculinities and femininities underpinning educational institutions and practices. It then assesses the Gender Awareness and Transformation through Education project, which was designed to support the development of gender expertise and capacities in research and education at one specific institution, across both its administrative and academic units. Current and future academics at Dar es Salaam University College of Education were trained in gender-based research and education, and a strategic plan was developed to guide in the establishment of a Gender Research Centre that will provide gender expertise in research and teaching to the College; and, over time, to other HEIs nationally and regionally. By bringing together real-world insights from action-based research, the book demonstrates the impact of real-time social change and gender transformation, with implications both for Tanzania and beyond. Bringing novel empirical insights and policy recommendations, this book will be of interest to researchers and policy makers across the fields of gender studies, education, and African studies.