NUS senior management and academics engage in productive discussions with the Commonwealth of Learning (COL) Gender Specialist consultant during Gender Audit consultations, showcasing a commitment to gender mainstreaming and inclusivity.
By Staff Writer
The National University of Samoa (NUS) is undertaking a Gender Audit to ensure fair and equal learning opportunities for all students, male or female.
A university audit team will “…assess and address gender disparities across various university facets…”as one of their main responsibilities, according to an NUS media statement.
The development of policies “…to enhance gender mainstreaming..” is also included as well as “…aligning NUS’s initiatives with current research trends across the Pacific and globally.”
The NUS Vice-Chancellor herself, Professor Tuifuisa’a Patila Amosa, is leading the adult gender challenge.
Professor Muagututia Chan Mow, Professor Tuiloma Susana Taua’a and Saui’a Dr. Louise Mataia Milo are in the team.
“The NUS Gender Team’s efforts are vital in strengthening NUS’s commitment to fostering a more equitable and diverse academic environment while ensuring alignment with the university’s corporate plan, the Samoa Pathway, and national policy frameworks,” the media statement explained.
Collaborative efforts at NUS as staff participate in Gender Audit consultations.
Professor Tuifuisa’a also added to the wide range of benefits expected from the gender audit .
“By conducting a comprehensive Gender Audit, NUS stands to enhance its policies, practices, and culture, leading to improved recruitment and retention rates, increased student satisfaction, and overall academic excellence,” she declared.
“At the same time we ensure that our Samoan cultural values are always at the heart of any change.”
The NUS is looking to offer a gender studies curriculum as part of its long-term goal for the future.
The Faculty of Arts already offers courses that examine gender intersections, laying a solid foundation for the development of a comprehensive gender studies program.
The NUS is working in collaboration with the Commonwealth of Learning (COL) and the gender specialist Dr. Asenati Liki Chang Tung, to ensure thorough internal consultations on the Gender Audit initiative.