Early career scholars and researchers from various universities and institutions in Rwanda gathered at the University for a one-week intensive course on Gender, Science, and Leadership in Higher Education. The program equipped participants with practical skills on how gender intersects with science and leadership.
The course featured various sessions facilitated by experienced researchers from Rwanda, Tanzania, South Africa, Sweden, and the USA. It was initiated by Prof. Linley Chiwona-Karltun and a team at the University of Rwanda. Chiwona-Karltun emphasized that the course was designed and delivered to empower a critical mass of academics and researchers, enabling them to provide accurate, evidence-based data to inform gender-related policies.
“We need people who can question why women are more likely to do this while men are more likely to do that,” said Prof. Chiwona-Karltun, a professor at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, highlighting the need to address gender gaps observed in all aspects of life.
Dr. Merezia Wilson, a facilitator from the University of Dar es Salaam Business School, stated that the course enabled participants to integrate gender aspects into scientific research, fostering knowledge creation. She added that science is often perceived as numbers, data, and figures, while the role of social sciences and their connection to gender aspects is frequently overlooked.
Drocelle Nyiransabimana (C) among participants who attended the course
According to Drocelle Nyiransabimana, a participant from the University of Technology and Arts of Byumba (UTAB), the course provided valuable insights into leadership skills and self-confidence among women. Other skills gained included network building, research methodologies, effective communication for disseminating findings, and identifying research beneficiaries.
DVC Francoise T. Kayitare awarding a certificate to one participant
The course was closed by Francoise Tengera Kayitare, the University’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Finance. She reminded participants that research is most impactful when it addresses societal needs. She commended their dedication, emphasizing that the knowledge gained would shape their career paths and encouraged them to apply their learning within their broader communities.
Facilitators From Left Prof Alfred Bizoza (UR), Dr. Merezia Wilson (University of Dar es Salaam), Prof Prof. Chiwona-Karltun (SLU), Dr Alexandra D’urso (SLU) and Dr Marie Chantal Cyulinyana (RAWISE)
This course was developed within the framework of the UR-Sweden Program, a bilateral research cooperation between the Governments of Sweden and Rwanda. It was initiated under the Engendering Rural Transformation for Sustainable Development (ENTRUST) Subprogram, a collaboration between UR and SLU. Rwandan Association for Women in Science and Engineering (RAWISE) was also a partner in this initiative.
Participants pose for a group photo