In 2023, USAID unveiled its Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment Policy, informed by extensive groundwork and global research, underscoring the importance of gender to sustainable development. As such, the USAID policy to promote gender equality worldwide now serves as a vital cross-cutting theme in projects such as the Partnership for Higher Education Reform.
On May 22, 2024, the USAID Partnership for Higher Education Reform project provided technical support on gender equality to VNUHCM. The event was entitled: Promoting Women’s Engagement in Science and Technology Activities at VNUHCM and attracted approximately 30 delegates. Among them were leadership representatives of VNUHCM and member universities, as well as faculty members and staff with keen interest in this area.
Ms. Ho Nguyen Nhat Tien – Vice Director, Department of External Relations and Project Development delivered opening remarks at the workshop
In her opening remarks, Ms. Ho Nguyen Nhat Tien, Vice Director, Department of External Relationships and Project Development highlighted that: “diversity and gender equality in the fields of science and technology enhance the role of women, provide motivation and contribute to the overall scientific and technological landscape of Vietnam in general and comprehensive development of education and research institutions in particular.” Ms. Tien added, “Women, with their varied perspectives and approaches, contribute to generating innovative solutions that can better address the diverse needs of society.”
During the technical support session, Associate Professor Nguyen Thi Van, the Project expert, highlighted the significant gender disparities in science and technology within higher education in Vietnam. She provided expert guidance on applying the Sex & Gender Equality in Research (SAGER) model to address these gaps and boost women’s engagement in STEM fields.
Delegates joining the workshop
The session offered delegates valuable insights into the crucial roles women play in science and technology, both globally and nationally, within the higher education context. Participants were encouraged to use the knowledge and skills acquired to incorporate gender-related content into their research. Also in the discussion session, Dr. Nguyen Thi Thuy Lien, Deputy Director of the Department of Science and Technology described VNUHCM’s current practices intended to encourage female faculty in the STEM fields.
Delegates at the workshop on gender equality and women’s empowerment at Vietnam National University – Ho Chi Minh City
The session resulted in a significant increase in knowledge of gender concepts among the participants. For example, the pre- and post-survey results showed that 89% of participants reported having knowledge in gender equality in science and technology fields after the session, compared to 24% before . Nearly all attendees expressed satisfaction with the workshop’s relevance to their daily work and showed eagerness to apply the acquired knowledge and skills in their professional roles. Additionally, the session’s outcomes suggest potential improvements in VNUHCM’s regulations and practices to better support women’s engagement in STEM, especially as women increasingly participate in scientific research and management in higher education.