Few women studies centres in state, and not many takers for courses

Ahna Prakash | NT

Bengaluru

The University Grants Commission (UGC) recommended that universities in Karnataka should have women study centres to promote studies related to women empowerment and gender equality.

 However, according to the data provided by the women and child development department, only eight universities in Karnataka have a woman study centre.

 Sudeshna Mukharjee, Associate professor at the Centre for Women Studies, Bangalore University, says they have received 30 enrolments for this academic session.

 “Majority of the students who have enrolled are men. We have been trying to get more women to enroll in the course, but it’s not happening as of now. The course structure is formed in a way that can help an individual learn about things like internalized misogyny and the impact of patriarchy,” she said.

 She also added that the centre faces an issue with the permanent faculty. “Not many students are aware of the course. So there aren’t many people who take admissions. The college also doesn’t want to invest a lot in a department which has very few students,” Mukharjee said.

According to the UGC guidelines, the aim of women’s study centres is to teach women’s contribution to society and make students familiar with various women achievers in different fields. The course helps in empowering women and creating awareness.

Dr Lata, education officer, UGC, says that the UGC doesn’t have the exact data for the number of centres and colleges in the state. “We have been trying to encourage institutions to start women studies centres. One of the reasons is that this course is not good for getting a job. Many students hence opt for a more professional course. It is important to create more job positions for graduates of women’s studies. This will solve the issue of enrolment, and more universities will be willing to open a centre,” she said.

In 1986, women’s studies were introduced into the National Policy of Education. As part of the 12th Five Year Plan, women’s centres saw an expansion in India when they were declining globally. Since then students of women’s studies have made significant contributions in the field of research work and policy making