Gender responsive multidisciplinary doctoral training program: the Consortium for Advanced Research Training in...

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Gender Studies
• Higher Education in Africa

Background:

• Africa faces a research capacity deficit, with only 1.4% of global research authored by African researchers.
• Women in Sub-Saharan Africa are underrepresented in research, constituting only 30% of researchers and publishing less.
• Addressing gender inequities in African research requires gender-responsive doctoral programs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the approach of a multidisciplinary doctoral training program, CARTA, in supporting women.
• To evaluate CARTA's impact on women's enrollment and completion rates in doctoral programs.
• To explore how CARTA's initiatives challenge traditional gender norms in academic and family settings.

Main Methods:

• The article describes the specific strategies and support mechanisms implemented by the Consortium for Advanced Research Training in Africa (CARTA).
• The program's approach focused on addressing practical needs related to childbearing and childrearing for female scholars.
• Data on enrollment and throughput rates were analyzed to assess program outcomes for men and women.

Main Results:

• CARTA achieved gender parity in doctoral program enrollment, with equal numbers of men and women.
• Similar throughput rates were observed for both male and female doctoral candidates.
• The program's support structures have led to observable shifts in gender norms, including increased paternal involvement in childcare.

Conclusions:

• Gender-responsive doctoral programs are crucial for enhancing research capacity and addressing gender inequities in African higher education.
• CARTA's model demonstrates that supporting women's practical needs can lead to equal participation and success in doctoral training.
• The program's outcomes suggest a positive impact on challenging traditional gender roles and creating visible female academic role models.