On International Women’s Day, Alfred Andama, a master of arts in Gender Studies, made waves with a courageous article published in a Ugandan newspaper. He fearlessly delved into the heart of his research: the impact of the male gaze on intergender relations at Makerere University. Andama’s article serves as a powerful wake-up call, shedding light on the harmful consequences, particularly for female students.
Through his keen observation and inquiry, Andama uncovered the harsh realities of unequal power dynamics and unrealistic beauty standards prevailing within the university. These issues have led to concerning outcomes, including poor academic performance, dropout rates, and even detrimental effects on mental health among female students.
But Andama’s article goes beyond mere words on a page. It’s a clarion call for action. He challenges all stakeholders to take a stand and transform Makerere into a space where everyone, regardless of gender, can thrive. And on Women’s Day, his message resonates deeply, serving as a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggle for true equality.
Andama is a graduate at the School of Women and Gender Studies at Makerere University and currently is part of the Gendig project. Additionally, he served as an exchange student at the University of Agder during the 2023 semester, where he presented his findings firsthand.
