African women in academia breaking the glass ceiling: Towards attainment of the sustainable development goals

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapterpeer-review

Abstract

Few women occupy a professorial rank in academia and senior management positions globally. The issues relating to women in academia find a locus in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals on quality education, gender equality, and reduced inequalities, with discussions focusing on women in power and decision-making. This chapter seeks to unveil challenges African women in academia encounter and how they can overcome these challenges and position themselves to contribute to the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals in Africa. Socio-cultural ties and obligations for women in Africa create challenges that make it difficult for women in academia to break the glass ceiling. Young female academics require mentorship, work-life balance, self-reflection, and a bounce back from adverse life events. We recommend policy direction and legislation in African universities to create equal opportunities for leadership positions for women and girls at every level of decision-making to reduce the gender gap and inequalities.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationEmpowering African Women for Sustainable Development
Subtitle of host publicationToward Achieving the United Nations' 2030 Goals
PublisherSpringer International Publishing
Pages107-119
Number of pages13
ISBN (Electronic)9783030591021
ISBN (Print)9783030591014
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 17 Dec 2020

Keywords

  • Academia
  • Africa
  • Development goals
  • Glass ceiling
  • Women

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