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ZENODO
Other literature type . 2025
License: CC BY NC
Data sources: ZENODO
ZENODO
Other literature type . 2025
License: CC BY NC
Data sources: Datacite
ZENODO
Other literature type . 2025
License: CC BY NC
Data sources: Datacite
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Gender Equity and University-to-Work Transitions: Exploring Barriers and Enablers for Female Science Students at the Catholic University of Rwanda

Authors: Lucien HAKIZIMANA*; Elias NTAWUZUMUNSI; Julienne MUREKEYISONI;

Gender Equity and University-to-Work Transitions: Exploring Barriers and Enablers for Female Science Students at the Catholic University of Rwanda

Abstract

Abstract: Despite Rwanda’s progress toward gender equity in education, female underrepresentation in science disciplines remains a concern. This study explores barriers and enablers influencing University-to-work transitions for female science students at the Catholic University of Rwanda (CUR). Using a mixed-methods approach, surveys, focus group discussions, and interviews with students, alumni, faculty, and employers, this research provides quantitative and qualitative insights. Findings reveal that 60% of CUR’s science students are female, with over 90% securing employment post-graduation, mainly in healthcare and education. Key enablers include academic support (82%), mentorship (74%), and financial sponsorships (68%). However, significant barriers persist: low self-esteem (56%), family-imposed gender norms (49%), and institutional biases (41%). Additional challenges include societal expectations (62%) and limited female role models in science careers (45%). Notably, CUR’s proactive gender equity initiatives have helped mitigate many of these constraints. The study concludes that the CUR model offers a replicable framework for improving female participation and transition into science careers. Policy recommendations include scaling holistic support systems, embedding inclusive and gender-responsive curricula, expanding mentorship networks, and conducting community sensitization to address socio-cultural obstacles and ensure sustainable gender equity in science education and employment.

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Keywords

Gender Equity, Science Education, University-to-Work Transition, Female Representation, Mentorship, Socio-Cultural Barriers.

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selected citations
These citations are derived from selected sources.
This is an alternative to the "Influence" indicator, which also reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically).
BIP!Citations provided by BIP!
popularity
This indicator reflects the "current" impact/attention (the "hype") of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network.
BIP!Popularity provided by BIP!
influence
This indicator reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically).
BIP!Influence provided by BIP!
impulse
This indicator reflects the initial momentum of an article directly after its publication, based on the underlying citation network.
BIP!Impulse provided by BIP!
0
Average
Average
Average
Green