Breaking the glass ceiling: perspectives and strategies on gender and research leadership in the health sciences at African higher education institutions
- Jose Jackson
, - Ama de-Graft Aikins ,
- Linda Mtwisha ,
- Linda Mitchel ,
- Harriet Kebirungi ,
- Karim Outtara ,
- Clare Viney
Abstract
The proportion of women researchers and those holding research leadership positions in the health sciences in Africa has increased but women still remain vastly underrepresented. The current research landscape shows a shift toward large collaborative, transdisciplinary and transnational platforms that require both strong scientific and relational leadership, which many researchers have often not been required or incentivized to develop. Given women’s underrepresentation, this changing landscape may likely have a differential impact as they may not have the experience and confidence to navigate these spaces. This paper will provide perspectives on gender and research leadership from African researchers in the health sciences, and identify the core competencies, skills and experiences needed to be a successful research leader. It will also share strategies and actions that researchers, institutions and funders should adopt when shaping the career development of women researchers and addressing national health challenges at African higher education institutions.
Keywords
gender, research leadership, health sciences, Africa, glass ceiling, higher education
Author Biography
Jose Jackson
Dr. Jose Jackson-Malete is the Co-Director of the Alliance for African Partnership (AAP) at Michigan State University (MSU). She is responsible for establishing a robust network of innovative partnerships among MSU, African universities, and other international partners. She also coordinates programs that promote the development of early career women researchers. Jose is the&former President of the Southern African Research and Innovation Management Association (SARIMA) and led SARIMA’s efforts in the professionalization of Research Management. She is a food scientist and maintains an active research program that focuses on processing and adding value to indigenous fruit and vegetable products, contributing to food and nutrition security, while improving livelihoods for communities.&
Ama de-Graft Aikins
British Academy Global Professor, Institute of Advanced Studies, University College London
Linda Mtwisha
Senior Director, Strategic Initiatives and Administration, University of Johannesburg, South Africa
Linda Mitchel
Director of Inclusive Development, University of Lincoln, Brayford Way, Brayford Pool, Lincoln LN6 7TS
Harriet Kebirungi
Coordinator, Gender Mainstreaming Unit, Kyambogo University, Kampala, Uganda
Karim Outtara
Head, Biodiversity, Ethology and Conservation (BEC), Swiss Center for Scientific Research, Félix Houphouët -Boigny Abidjan University, Côte d'Ivoire
Clare Viney
Chief Executive Officer, Careers Research and Advisory Centre (CRAC) / Vitae, Cambridge, United Kingdom