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Uganda Must Address Gender and Funding Gaps in ScienceCEFR B1

4 Jul 2023

Adapted from Edwin Naidu, SciDev CC BY 2.0

Photo by Edward edion, Unsplash

AI-assisted adaptation of the original article, simplified for language learners.

Uganda is experiencing significant gaps in gender inclusivity and funding in the field of science and technology (STI). Currently, only a small percentage of PhD holders are women, indicating that gender disparity affects education in these areas.

Between 2010 and 2020, female PhD holders represented less than a quarter of the total. Policymakers are increasingly acknowledging that addressing these issues is essential for Uganda’s growth and development.

To overcome challenges, reforms in STI training and research funding are critical. Initiatives like the Gender Equity in Research Alliance (GERA) aim to improve gender representation in research, but there is a need for more investment and innovative funding models to stimulate the private sector's involvement in research.

  • Less than 24% of PhD holders are women.
  • Research funding is often foreign-led.
  • Policy changes are necessary to support sustainable development.

Difficult words

  • inclusivityThe quality of including everyone.
  • disparityA significant difference or gap.
  • acknowledgingRecognizing or accepting something as true.
  • essentialVery important and necessary.
  • fundingMoney provided for a project or activity.
  • investmentPutting money or resources into something expecting a benefit.

Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.

Discussion questions

  • How can gender inclusivity in science be improved in your country?
  • What role do policymakers play in addressing gender disparity?
  • Why is it important to involve the private sector in research funding?

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