Nkumba University, in collaboration with Cyber School Technology Solutions and the Mastercard Foundation E-Learning initiative organized a rigorous Sensitization Workshop aimed at promoting gender mainstreaming and inclusive education.
The workshop which took place yesterday, 30th May 2023 at the University’s main hall brought together experts, administrative staff, and student representatives to foster knowledge, induce awareness, and impart shared commitment to addressing gender-related challenges in academic institutions.
In his remarks, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Jude Lubega expressed gratitude to all staff emphasizing the significance of active participation. “We will be embarking on a five-year journey courtesy of our partners Cyber School Technology Solutions and the Mastercard Foundation E-Learning initiative, I urge each individual to fully engage in the program and acquire valuable skills that would benefit them in their personal and professional executions.”
The Vice Chancellor also called upon every school within the University to introduce a virtual program in alignment with the institution’s E-Learning initiative.
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” Together, we can shape a brighter future for our students and society. Additionally, I call upon every school within our university to embrace virtual programs, enabling us to provide quality education through our eLearning initiative. Let us embrace innovation and inclusivity as we strive for excellence.” Said Prof. Jude.
The workshop sought to enlighten staff on gender parity and ensure deep understanding of the issues faced by young women and men in accessing higher education drawing emphasis on intersectional and human rights-based approach.
There was also focus on gender-based discrimination and raising awareness about violence against women in higher institutions of learning.
Participants engaged in discussions hinging around accountability mechanisms and safeguarding needs with a firm resolve to create a safe and inclusive learning environment for all students.
In recognizing the importance of gendered approaches to learning, the workshop made compelling insights highlighting the need for Academic institutions to adopt gender mainstreaming and safeguarding policies by equipping their staff with the necessary tools to create a more inclusive academic landscape.
Mrs. Evelyn Zaake, the Gender and Vulnerable Group Specialist for the E-Learning project at Cyber School, emphasized the role E-Learning plays in championing academic inclusivity.
“The E-Learning solution is a direct response to the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic. The aim is to establish a resilient model that can effectively support learners during any future closures of academic institutions. We are focused on assisting educators in digitizing content and empowering learners with accessibility.” Asserted Mrs. Evelyn Zaake.
Nkumba University, in collaboration with partners, continues to spearhead innovative initiatives that pave way for the actualization of the project.
Throughout the workshop, key deliverables were identified to ensure continued progress in gender mainstreaming at Nkumba University, including capacity building and availing devices like computers to facilitate the project’s agenda.
The post-workshop questionnaires were filled and submitted to lay the foundation for future training sessions and promote peer-to-peer sharing among academic staff on gender issues.
Cyber School Technology Solutions and Mastercard Foundation e-Learning initiative are working together to improve access to quality and relevant education targeting 95,000 youth in 21 higher institutions of learning in the country.
The projects aims at delivering 12,500 youth into meaningful and dignified job spaces by 2026.
Studies indicate that public policies are mostly based on the needs of the dominant gender or group in a society, the project is purposed to mitigate this by providing a 50-50 opportunity for both girls and boys.
