Welcome to the Centre for Gender Studies at Mbeya University of Science and Technology (MUST). 

Gender mainstreaming is a globally recognised strategy for integrating gender equality considerations into all aspects of development, including policies, programmes, projects, and institutional activities. At MUST, the Centre for Gender Studies ensures that the diverse needs, perspectives, and experiences of women and men are considered in the design, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of University activities. 

The ultimate goal is to promote gender equality, inclusiveness, equity, and empowerment, while addressing and preventing the perpetuation of gender-based inequalities. 

MUST has consistently promoted gender equity and equality through various initiatives and measures aimed at enhancing gender balance across the University. These include: 

• Establishment of Women’s Participation in Technical Education (WITED);
• Establishment of a Gender Subcommittee at the University; and
• Conducting gender sensitisation workshops and seminars, including initiatives promoting Women in Science and Technology, particularly among secondary school students.

Rationale for the Centre
MUST established the Centre for Gender Studies in recognition of the global movement towards human rights, inclusion, gender equality, and empowerment, which are universally recognised as fundamental principles for human development.
Achieving sustainable social, economic, and cultural development requires the meaningful participation and empowerment of both women and men. The University recognises that sustainable development and social equity depend on harnessing the knowledge, skills, and potential of women, men, and young people, while ensuring that disadvantaged and marginalised groups are not left behind.
MUST also recognises the growing efforts by international, regional, and national authorities to eliminate gender discrimination and promote gender mainstreaming across all sectors and areas of society.
Gender equality is therefore an important institutional and development concern. To address gender-related challenges effectively, the University has developed policies and programmes aimed at addressing gender disparities, gender-based violence, gender gaps, and other issues related to equality and inclusion, including the integration of gender-related issues into curricula and institutional practices.

Objectives of the Centre for Gender Studies
 
The Centre for Gender Studies aims to:
a)    Increase female student enrolment in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) programmes.
b)    Improve the completion rates of female students by creating a safe, supportive, and inclusive learning environment.
c)    Increase the recruitment and participation of female staff across the University's functional areas.
d)    Reduce the incidence of gender-based violence (GBV) within the University community.
e)    Establish gender-related programmes and integrate gender issues into existing curricula.
f)     Promote career choices and the academic and professional development of students in STEM programmes through guidance and                      counselling.
g)    Empower female staff to participate effectively in decision-making processes at MUST.
h)   Increase and promote the participation of women in academic, research, consultancy, and community outreach programmes at national             and international levels.

 The Centre for Gender Studies comprises two departments: 

i. Department of Gender Advocacy 

ii.  Department of Gender Training and Research 

Advancing Gender Equality at MUST 

The Centre for Gender Studies is committed to creating a safe, inclusive, equitable, and gender-responsive University environment where women and men have equal opportunities to learn, work, conduct research, innovate, lead, and contribute to society. 

Through advocacy, training, research, mentorship, outreach, and strategic partnerships, the Centre works to advance gender equality at MUST and contribute to Tanzania's broader development agenda. 

Together, we can build a more inclusive University and a society where everyone has the opportunity to realise their full potential.