Gender Equality in Higher Education — Maximising Impacts

This report examines how gender inequality shows up, reproduces, and — importantly — can be challenged within higher education (HE) systems around the world. It analyses legal and policy frameworks, draws on quantitative data and academic research, and reviews real-world examples of effective practice. British Council+2British Council+2

🔍 What it covers

• Unequal access to higher education for women and under-represented groups; fewer resources and opportunities for women in many countries. British Council+1

• Persistent under-representation of women in academic leadership, and structural barriers to career progression even when women succeed academically. British Council+1

• The existence of gender-based violence affecting both students and staff in HE institutions. British Council

• The broader societal impacts of gender inequality in HE: how uneven access and representation reinforce gender disparities in labour markets, leadership and social power. British Council+1

✅ What it offers — Towards Solutions

• A compendium of global resources, data sources, and 17 detailed case studies. British Council+1

• Recommendations grouped into 12 thematic areas — from access and participation, through institutional culture and leadership, to safety, gender-sensitive policies, recruitment and promotion practices. British Council+1

• A roadmap for stakeholders — governments, higher-education oversight bodies, universities, funders, educators — to embed gender equality systematically in HE. British Council+1

HE institutions are not just centres of learning — they shape future leaders, researchers, and influencers. According to the report, when universities actively model gender-equitable norms, value women’s voices and ideas, and ensure equal opportunities and safety, they become powerful tools to accelerate gender equality worldwide. British Council+1

ReferenceGender Equality in Higher Education – Maximising Impacts https://www.britishcouncil.org/research-insight/gender-equality-higher-education-maximising-impacts