Fighting from within: gender equity at the University of the Free State

Abstract

English: This study sets out to assess the extent to which gender equity has been mainstreamed at the University of the Free State (UFS). The external environment is briefly discussed in terms of the policy framework within which the institution operates. This is followed by a gender analysis of the institution. It is first compared with other universities. Data are then presented in respect of the position of women academics at the institution, as well as of their experience of and reaction to the organisational culture. Several employment barriers are identified and the relevant legal implications of the Employment Equity Act are indicated.

Afrikaans: Die ondersoek poog om vas te stel hoe geslagsgelykberegtiging in die hoofstroomaktiwiteite van die Universiteit van die Vrystaat (UV) geïntegreer word. Die eksterne omgewing word kortliks bespreek in terme van die beleidsraamwerk waarbinne die instelling funksioneer, gevolg deur ’n gender-analise van die instelling. Eerstens word dit met ander universiteite in die land vergelyk. Data word dan voorgehou oor die posisie van vroue-akademici aan die UV, asook oor hul ervaring van en reaksie op die organisasiekultuur. Verskeie werkplekhindernisse word geïdentifiseer en die wetlike implikasies in terme van die Wet op Billike Indiensneming word aangedui.