info@mut.ac.ke +254-798 959 217

Gender & Disability Mainstreaming Unit

Our Vision

To mainstream gender and disability in all operation of the University

OUR VISION

To mainstream gender and disability in all operation of the University

OUR MISSION

To ensure equality, equity and inclusivity of all staff and students in Murang’a University of Technology

OUR MISSION

To ensure equality, equity and inclusivity of all staff and students in Murang’a University of Technology

OUR OBJECTIVES

To promote fairness and inclusivity by addressing gender concerns in the University on quarterly basis
To promote fairness and inclusivity by addressing disability concerns in the University as they arise.
To enhance access of facilities and services to PWDs within the University by conducting usability and accessibility audit.

OUR OBJECTIVES

To promote fairness and inclusivity by addressing gender concerns in the University on quarterly basis
To promote fairness and inclusivity by addressing disability concerns in the University as they arise.
To enhance access of facilities and services to PWDs within the University by conducting usability and accessibility audit.

GENDER AND DISABILITY MAINSTREAMING UNIT

Hello, and welcome to Gender and Disability Mainstreaming Department. Murang’a University of Technology is very committed towards realizing inclusiveness, gender equality and disability friendly environment.The office of gender and Disability was established in 2013 to mainstream gender and disability related frameworks within Murang’a University of Technology. The office operates as a Unit under the office of Registrar, Administration and Planning and is headed by a Coordinator. The coordinator operates under the guidance of two committees that is Gender Mainstreaming Committee and Disability Mainstreaming Committee. The unit is also guided by three main policies which include; disability mainstreaming, gender mainstreaming and sexual, gender based violence policies.

The University has taken steps to support students with disabilities, including the appointment of a disability mainstreaming champion who offers mentorship services to build their confidence and improve their academic performance. The office encourages the students with disabilities to participate in student elections and extra curriculum activities; this is a way of creating a sense community and connection between learners hence high engagement.

As the UNESCO says eliminating barriers to enter into higher education is only the first step to ensuring inclusion, the University has strived to make the environment more accessible by putting in place accessible facilities such as washrooms, ramps, tactile lifts, and an accessible University website, as well as accessible learning materials and lecture rooms. These facilities are important making it easier for students with disabilities to excel in their academics. Extra 30 minutes is allocated to students with disabilities in order to encourage them to perform well in their examinations. Furthermore, large print material and exams are offered to students with low vision, preventing them from straining to read the standard font (12).

The University has also installed Non-Visual Desk Access (NVDA) programme to computers in the library to ease access to library resources by students with low vision. The University works with other state agencies such as the National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) to sensitize students on disabilities issues so as to promote inclusivity in University education.

The Unit encourages student with disabilities to apply for scholarship/educational assistance from NCPWD using the higher education loan board portal.

Definition of disability related terms (Disability Mainstreaming)

Disability mainstreaming is a concept and approach aimed at integrating the needs and perspectives of people with disabilities into all aspects of societal activities. The goal is to ensure that individuals with disabilities have equal opportunities, participate fully in all areas of life, and are not marginalized or excluded due to their disabilities. This approach goes beyond simply addressing disability as a separate issue and instead seeks to embed disability considerations into the mainstream of policies, programs, and practices.

A disability is generally defined as a physical or mental condition that significantly limits a person’s movements, senses, or activities, often resulting in the need for special accommodations or support. Disabilities can be congenital (present at birth) or acquired (developed later in life), and they may be temporary or permanent. The concept of disability is broad and encompasses a wide range of conditions.

Some categories of disabilities include; hearing impairment, physical disabilities visual impairment, cerebral palsy, mental disabilities, chronic health conditions, learning disabilities speech disorders, autism etc.

The National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) is a governmental organization that is established to address the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities. The general purpose of a National Council for Persons with Disabilities is to advocate for the rights, inclusion, and empowerment of individuals with disabilities.

Definition of gender related terms (gender mainstreaming)

Mainstreaming gender in a University involves integrating gender perspectives and considerations into all aspects of university life, including policies, programs, and practices. The goal is to create an inclusive and equitable environment that recognizes and addresses gender-based disparities

Gender refers to the social, cultural, and psychological attributes, roles, and behaviors that a society considers appropriate for men and women. It encompasses a range of identities and expressions related to masculinity, femininity, and the spectrum of gender diversity. Gender identity is an individual’s deeply-felt sense of their gender, which may or may not align with the sex assigned to them at birth (male or female). It’s important to recognize that gender is distinct from biological sex and is a complex interplay of biology, identity, and cultural factors.

Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) refers to any harmful act directed at an individual or a group of individuals based on their gender or perceived gender roles. It includes acts that result in, or are likely to result in, physical, sexual, or psychological harm or suffering. SGBV is a pervasive and deeply rooted issue that occurs in various contexts, such as conflict zones, domestic settings, and within communities.

Forms of SGBV include, but are not limited to:

Sexual Violence:
- Rape and sexual assault.
- Forced prostitution or human trafficking for sexual exploitation.
- Sexual harassment.
Gender-Based Violence:
- Physical violence based on gender, including domestic violence.
- Emotional or psychological abuse related to gender.
- Harmful traditional practices, such as female genital mutilation or forced marriage.
Homophobic and Transphobic Violence:
- Violence directed at individuals based on their sexual orientation or gender identity.

SGBV is a violation of human rights and often reflects and perpetuates existing inequalities and power imbalances between genders. The office has been organizing gender activities such as celebrating worldwide gender days, which provides an opportunity to speak or address gender concerns such as sexual gender-based violence and discrimination against one gender, Sensitization of students on gender issues and training of gender ambassadors.

Additionally, the office has a toll-free number (0800 724 635) dedicated to addressing sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) serves as a crucial resource in the reporting of incidents of SGBV and for immediate assistance.

At Murang’a University of Technology, we are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible environment for all members of our community. On this International Day of People with Disabilities, we reaffirm our dedication to:

Education

Providing resources and support to students with disabilities to enhance their learning experience.

Advocacy:

Being a voice for inclusivity and actively working towards breaking down barriers that limit the full participation of individuals with disabilities.

Accessibility:

Ensuring that our physical and digital spaces are accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities.

Get Involved

Join us in commemorating the International Day of People with Disabilities by:

Attending Events: Participate in events and activities organized on campus to celebrate diversity and promote understanding.
Sharing Stories: Share personal experiences, success stories, or insights about living with disabilities to foster a supportive community.
Educating Others: Spread awareness by engaging in conversations and educating others about the challenges and triumphs of people with disabilities.