Lincoln Funding Initiatives – Consideration for all.
‘Gender parity is fundamental to whether and how economies and societies thrive’
(WEF, 2018)
GWC were thrilled to see the funding for Lincoln university utilised for two groups of women within the institution. Investing in both professional development of staff through a series of practical and applied workshops, and giving scholarships to female students who’s studies have been impacted from COVID-19 are both interesting initiatives that help women extend, grow and support within their chosen vocation or study.
Professional Development Initiative for Administration Staff
Professional development for administrative (aka Professional or General Staff) staff within tertiary institutions is limited. Whilst structured career pathways exist for academic women, there is typically no such pathway for women in administrative positions, who make up the majority of people employed in these roles. The administrative staff at Lincoln University hold valuable institutional knowledge and organisation experience and are an important resource that contribute to the success of the University.
Investing in professional development for this cohort will demonstrate that the University values them, and aligns with Lincoln University’s values of Rakatirataka, Tohatoha and Manaakitaka.
In order for administrative staff to remain adaptive and relevant, it is necessary to provide them with opportunities for professional growth and development designed specifically for this group, even if the outcome is that they move on from the University.
Financial Support for Students
Women have always encountered social and domestic barriers to tertiary education. For the most part, women are the primary caregivers of children and/or relatives and must juggle domestic demands and expectations with their desire to succeed academically and financially.
With the impact of COVID-19, women with caregiving responsibilities, and people of colour, have been disproportionately affected internationally (Mooi-Reci and Risman, 2021). We have seen this amongst our students at Lincoln University, with female students, particularly Māori and Pasifika, facing immense challenges towards completing their studies. Our goal is to provide support to women who have had their studies impacted in any way from COVID-19.
Conclusion
The focus Lincoln University has taken combines flawlessly with GWC’s mission of `barrier free education for all women’. For our board to support and connect on a financial level to change the future of variety of women in various situations, if even a small amount, is why we continue to work as we do.
GWC look forward to hearing the progress and outcomes for these recipients.