IMPACT ANALYSIS OF GENDER MAINSTREAMING IN HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS IN KENYA

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to analyze the impact of gender mainstreaming environment in higher education institutions in Kenya. The objectives included;- to assess policy environment on gender mainstreaming in higher
education in Kenya, to establish institutional environment in relation to gender mainstreaming in higher education in Kenya and to determine critical policy indicators in gender mainstreaming in higher education in Kenya. The study utilized an eclectic approach with a focus on descriptive survey design. The sample comprised three universities in western Kenya. The study participants comprised six deans of schools, nine heads of sections and 300 students. The study findings revealed that both the policy and organizational environment with regard to gender mainstreaming in higher education institutions in Africa still require amendments and strengthening of structures. Similarly, the study has emphasized the link between economic development and women’s education. This is equally related to levels of economic productivity, gender equality and the empowerment of women which are important goals in their own right and are vital to poverty elimination, and achievement of all the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) The critical policy indicators included both qualitative and quantitative indicators. The study findings are significant to educators, policy developers and policy implementers with regard to gender mainstreaming in higher education institutions in Kenya, Africa and worldwide.