Institutionalising Gender and Women’s Studies at the University of Cape Coast in Ghana

Abstract

The University of Cape Coast (UCC) is credited in Ghana for having the first female Vice-Chancellor, yet it experiences gender disparities. The establishment of a Centre for Gender Research, Advocacy and Documentation (CEGRAD) in 2013 provides the university a tool for addressing the disparities. Based on the results of our meta-analysis and interviews with key management players in the university, this paper discusses gaps in existing gender equity initiatives in the university, challenges associated with operationalising existing initiatives and strategies for promoting CEGRAD as an interdisciplinary focal point for providing a theoretical grounding for gender and women’s studies at UCC. Available research findings are replete with cases of gender disparities resulting from internal and external factors. It is argued that engagement with the gender dynamics at play within the university environment is paramount for CEGRAD's success. The paper provides evidence to justify the establishment of CEGRAD and recommends strategies for making it operational in the university.

Keywords: Ghana, Gender centre, Institutionalizing gender, Advocacy, Women's studies & Gender sensitization