Mapping and engaging university partners on gender in food, land and water systems

Abstract

Addressing gender inequalities in food, land and water systems (FLWS) is crucial because these inequalities have a tangible effect on food security, economic development and social equity. The CGIAR Gender Equality and Social Inclusion leads strategic, innovative research to advance gender equality, opportunities for youth, and social inclusion within FLWS. It works with CGIAR Science Programs and Accelerators and external partners, such as universities across the world, to achieve its objectives. Strengthening existing and establishing new partnerships with universities—such as through knowledge exchange, joint research, capacity sharing and policy influence—is critical to generating quality gender research; leveraging global expertise, networks and ongoing initiatives; and achieving desired change in FLWS.

This report provides the results of a study in which we mapped and engaged some of CGIAR’s university partners working on gender in FLWS across four regions: Africa, Europe, Asia and Latin America. Engagement was based on availability. The study aimed to determine priority areas for capacity sharing, key themes, methodological challenges and opportunities for interdisciplinary research that address gender dynamics in FLWS. A total of 14 faculty members from 13 universities participated in the study. These institutions comprised four universities from Africa, five in Latin America, four in Asia, and one in Europe. Universities were selected purposively for being longstanding partners of CGIAR in gender research, and because of their demonstrated institutional interest or potential for contributing to gender integration in FLWS research. Data were collected via an online survey featuring open-ended questions, and key informant interviews conducted virtually using Microsoft Teams in 2024.

Results show regional variability in integrating gender dimensions in FLWS research across the universities that participated in the study. There is minimal integration of gender in the educational and research programs of the selected African universities. Participant universities in Asia and Latin America demonstrate increasing attention to the systematic integration of gender in academia and research, and the European university that participated in the study had a long history in gender studies and in integrating gender perspective and methodologies into its FLWS research.