Ministry of Education urged to introduce gender studies course in universities

20 September 2024, 8:24 pm

By Annet Nakato.

The Ministry of Education has been urged to introduce a gender studies course in universities to promote gender equality and challenge stereotypes.

Margaret Ssentamu, the Executive Director of the Uganda Media Women’s Association (UMWA), emphasised that such a course would be particularly beneficial in journalism programmes, as it would promote fairness in news writing and help journalists produce balanced stories.

Ssentamu made these remarks during a two-day training organised by UMWA and funded by the Austrian Development Corporation. The workshop aimed to equip journalists with the skills needed to report accurately and sensitively on issues related to Gender-Based Violence (GBV).

Participants at the workshop shared their takeaways, highlighting the impact of the training on their professional practice. Leticia Luwis, a journalist from Kola working with Solutions Africa, expressed her commitment to applying her new knowledge in her reporting.

Annet Nakato, a radio journalist from Mama FM, stated that the training has empowered her to create safe spaces for GBV survivors, ensuring they have ample time to share their stories before interviews. “This training has taught me the importance of providing a supportive environment for survivors,” she said.

Edwin Muhumuza, a journalist from Capital FM Uganda, noted that the workshop has enhanced his understanding of the legal aspects of GBV reporting. “I now know how crucial it is to incorporate laws and regulations into the stories I write,” Muhumuza remarked.

Joyce Namagambe, a journalist with MS News Uganda, mentioned that she learned the media should report more on women’s issues and provide them with a platform. She emphasised that our culture favours men over women, highlighting the need to give women a stronger voice in society.

The proposed introduction of a gender studies course in universities is expected to significantly improve the quality of news reporting in Uganda, promoting greater gender equality and fairness in media coverage.