KABUL’s studies master’s programme to create a platform for training future advocates of gender equality.
The programme is designed to facilitate research on gender, violence against women and underprivileged groups and raise awareness about men’s and women’s social responsibilities.
Designed with UNDP’s technical guidance and generous funding from the Republic of Korea, the two-year programme will teach a comprehensive curriculum covering women’s rights, such as legal protections and the role of women in poverty reduction, conflict resolution and politics.
Unlike other gender training courses offered over the years with short-term benefits, this programme would train career specialists and decrease Afghanistan’s reliance on foreign experts, a joint statement from the three partners said.
It would also aid the continuing emergence of women as decision makers, leaders of civil society movements, journalists and entrepreneurs, the statement added.
“Today we witness a historic moment at Kabul University as we open a gender and women’s studies programme here with support from UNDP and the Republic of Korea,” said Minister of Higher Education Farida Momand.
Kang Daesung, deputy chief of mission at the Korean embassy, said: “I am proud that Afghanistan is taking a major step toward institutionalising gender studies at Kabul University.”
He hoped graduates would greatly contribute to ensuring justice and equality for all Afghan people and empowering women in social, political and economic spheres.
UNDP Country Director Douglas Keh said: “After years of joint work with the Afghan government and international partners such as the Republic of Korea to promote gender equality, today we celebrate a milestone with the opening of this master’s programme.”
pr/mud
