Gender Mainstreaming in Student Organizations of a State University

Abstract

This study aimed to determine the gender mainstreaming efforts of student organizations at the University of Northern Philippines. It also identified the challenges met by the student leaders in mainstreaming gender in their respective organizations. The respondents of the survey conducted were the officers of student formations and accredited organizations who attended the executive-legislative assembly sponsored by the Office of Student Affairs and Services. The researchers employed a qualitative approach using documentary analysis to determine the gender mainstreaming efforts of student organizations. The researchers used the Gender Mainstreaming Evaluation Framework as their guide, particularly along the four entry points: policy, people, enabling mechanisms and programs, projects, and activities. The information on the student leaders' challenges in mainstreaming gender was obtained through an interview with another set of student leaders. The study found that along with the four entry points, there are gender mainstreaming efforts exerted by the student organizations. The officers also encountered some challenges. Therefore, the researchers conclude that the university, through the Office of Student Affairs and Services, has already started mainstreaming gender in student services. Also, male and female student leaders have access to leadership positions in student organizations based on their sex-disaggregated data. However, not all are fully aware that gender should be mainstreamed in the four entry points. The researchers would like to recommend that the Office of Student Affairs and Services should be strict enough to monitor gender mainstreaming in student organizations.