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Description
Programme outcome the project contributes to: “Enhanced gender equal opportunities in the labour market.
The project will address gender mainstreaming in education and vocational training.
The project will include, inter alia, the following main activities:
* Development of knowledge, tools and methodology to mainstream gender equality in the Portuguese system of higher education;
* Analysis of gender equality in higher education, including data and interviews with persons in key management positions;
* Development of recommendations on the establishment of gender equality criteria for the assessment and accreditation of higher education institutions and study programmes;
* Development of case studies on gender issues, including action-based research;
* Definition of guidelines and recommendations for the integration of gender equality in curricula.
Summary of project results
This project aimed to promote gender equality in higher education institutions (HEIs). It addressed key challenges such as gender disparities in leadership and pay, lack of awareness, and institutional barriers to career progression.
The project focused on improving policies, integrating gender equality into curricula and governance, and developing tools like training programs and best practices. It also established monitoring mechanisms to track progress. By fostering an inclusive academic environment, Ge-HEI sought to empower all members of the higher education community.
The Ge-HEI project implemented various activities to promote gender equality in higher education institutions (HEIs) in Portugal.
The project conducted data analysis using national and international databases to identify gender disparities, particularly patterns of horizontal and vertical segregation. This resulted in the production of an information sheet on gender equality in HEIs.
It also included interviews and case studies, with 21 individual interviews conducted with female leaders and academics in management positions. Additionally, four case studies were carried out in HEIs, involving interviews and focus groups with faculty, students, and non-teaching staff, as well as workshops to present the results.
Workshops and webinars were an essential part of the project. A kick-off meeting was held for initial planning, followed by two webinars to present preliminary results. The project also engaged in bilateral meetings with international partners, including in Iceland.
To ensure dissemination and communication, results were presented at national and international conferences, and published in scientific reports, articles, newspapers, and social media.
The project produced several key outputs. A scientific report was developed with study results and recommendations for introducing gender equality measures in HEIs. Tools and methodologies included a methodology for promoting gender equality, a Gender Equality Indicator Index, and the creation of an award and quality seal to encourage best practices.
The project also had a direct policy impact, contributing to changes in the Agency for Assessment and Accreditation of Higher Education (A3ES), which now includes gender criteria in the evaluation of institutions and study programs.
The Ge-HEI project brought significant progress in promoting gender equality in higher education institutions (HEIs) in Portugal.
Gender equality is now a recognized quality criterion in the accreditation and evaluation of study programs. The Higher Education Accreditation Agency (A3ES) has integrated gender criteria into its evaluation frameworks and the selection of External Evaluation Teams. As a result, 97 HEIs, covering 4,298 study programs, have incorporated gender equality into their self-assessment reports.
To support long-term change, the project developed guidelines and methodologies for integrating gender equality into undergraduate curricula and HEI governance. Additionally, an Award and Quality Seal was introduced to encourage best practices.
These efforts contribute to a more inclusive and balanced academic environment, benefiting students, faculty, and staff while ensuring equal opportunities in education and career advancement.
Summary of bilateral results
The partnership with the Center for Gender Research (RIKK) in Iceland provided a valuable exchange of experiences and knowledge, enhancing strategies for promoting gender equality in higher education institutions in Portugal. Through this collaboration, lessons from previous projects were integrated into the Ge-HEI project, leading to a more refined methodological approach and improved fieldwork strategies in higher education institutions. The partnership strengthened bilateral relations between Portugal and Iceland while fostering a shared commitment to advancing gender equality in higher education, a fundamental principle for both countries.