Breaking Barriers: Examining the Participation of Female Students in the Student Representative Council at a Public University in Zimbabwe

Gracious Mupupuni, Clara Kunakahakudyiwi, Viola Munesi & Adija Muchenga
University of Zimbabwe
Email: mupupunigracious119@gmail.com

Abstract: Gender parity in leadership, including student governance structures at institutions of higher learning, remains a challenge globally, especially in Africa, and Zimbabwe in particular. This study examines factors influencing the representation of female students in the Student Representative Council (SRC) at a public university in Zimbabwe. A survey design was employed and semi-structured interviews were conducted to collect both quantitative and qualitative data. Descriptive statistics and thematic analyses were used to analyse data. Less than half of the respondents opined that women are adequately represented in the SRC. They pointed out some of the inhibiting factors such as lack of confidence and financial resources. Interviews identified socio-cultural challenges such as negative societal perceptions leading to backlash against female candidates. Recommendations include gender sensitisation programs, targeted leadership training, implementation of representation quotas, and advocacy on transforming patriarchal societal attitudes. Overall, addressing multifaceted constraints can promote the realisation of women’s full leadership capabilities at the institutional level.