Juliana Koury Gaioso
In an ever-evolving world, gender studies have taken center stage, shedding light on the intricate web of gender roles and the unique challenges women face. Our academic journey recently led us to an enlightening exchange with two remarkable students, Fionah Agaba and Alfred Andama, hailing from Makerere University. They shared their in-depth research on gender-related issues in Uganda, offering a fresh perspective on gender dynamics.
Meet the Scholars: Fionah Agaba and Alfred Andama
Fionah Agaba and Alfred Andama, both recipients of prestigious scholarships, are master’s students at the School of Women and Gender Studies at Makerere University. For their exchange semester at the University of Agder, they joined the Master’s program in Development, Crisis, and Change. Alfred is on the cusp of completing his master’s degree, while Fionah is gearing up to embark on her data gathering journey. They graciously presented their thesis topics, “The Male Gaze” and “Conflicts in the Women’s Movement,” respectively, offering us invaluable insights into gender roles and activism in Uganda. (Read more about their experience in Kristiansand)
Decoding ‘The Male Gaze’ within Uganda’s Academic Landscape
Alfred’s research delves into the fascinating concept of “the male gaze” among university students. He dissects the interplay of power dynamics between female students, male students and lectures. Crediting from the influence of American pop culture to the profound impact on women, continuously subjected to objectification by heterosexual male desires. He also delved into religious texts, uncovering an earlier archetype of the female body as an object of male gaze.
In his research, Alfred finds that the male gaze tends to reduce women to one-dimensional objects of desire, perpetuating their objectification and leaving a lasting impact on female students. This impact often manifests as psychological pressure and body image concerns. In light of these findings, Alfred encourages open dialogues aimed at challenging traditional views on sexuality and fostering a transformative shift in mindset.
Power Dynamics Within Women’s Activist Movements in Uganda
Fionah’s research proposal is deeply personal, inspired by her own experiences. She courageously unveils the complex conflicts within Uganda’s women’s movement, challenging the conventional narrative of sisterhood. Her research, rooted in qualitative analysis, aims to unravel the power dynamics in various women’s organizations and the environments they offer their members. Focusing on the hierarchical structure within women’s movements can stifle the growth of younger activists and foster internal conflicts.
A Deeper Understanding of Gender Dynamics
The academic exchange culminated with engaging discussions and insightful feedback from the esteemed professors and PhDs present. It’s evident that these two scholars have paved the way for deeper conversations and actions to create a more inclusive and harmonious society. As we continue to explore gender dynamics in Uganda and beyond, Fionah and Alfred’s work serves as an inspiration to challenge conventions, foster dialogue, and effect positive change in the realm of gender studies and activism.