Min Ingabire calls for bold steps in advancing gender equity, accelerating action

University of Global Health Equity (UGHE) reaffirmed its commitment to gender equity through action, not just dialogue, during its International Women’s Day celebration on March 14, 2025. The event featured the Minister of ICT and Innovation, Paula Ingabire, in a discussion themed ‘AccelerateAction.’ The gathering brought together students, faculty, and staff to explore ways to move beyond awareness and implement bold steps to bridge gender gaps in healthcare, technology, and leadership. Minister Ingabire underscored the interconnectedness of health, equity, and gender equality, stating: “Women comprise the majority of the global healthcare workforce, yet they remain underrepresented in leadership and policymaking, as well as in accessing healthcare services. We must change that.” Women leading change Minister Ingabire emphasized that true gender equity extends beyond numerical representation in leadership. “It’s not just about having women in leadership; it’s about ensuring they have the power to drive change,” she asserted. UGHE is actively shaping this vision into reality through policies designed to uplift women. Its Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) program maintains a 70% female enrolment policy, fostering greater female participation in medicine. Additionally, UGHE’s Centre for Gender Equity (CGE) integrates gender equity into research, teaching, and institutional policies, creating an environment where women can thrive. “Equity doesn’t happen by accident. It happens when we design policies and systems that uplift women and give them equal opportunities,” noted Dr. Shivon Byamukama, UGHE’s Deputy Vice Chancellor for Administrative and Financial Affairs. Men as allies in gender equity The discussion also highlighted the critical role of men as allies in advancing gender equity. Prof. Abebe Bekele, UGHE’s Deputy Vice Chancellor of Academics and Research Affairs, urged men to take an active role. “If you can’t support women, at least don’t be the sticky floor; women can jump,” he remarked, emphasizing the need to eliminate barriers rather than reinforce them. He further encouraged women to persist in leadership, stating, “If you’re not invited to the table, bring your own chair.” Technology, healthcare, and the power of inclusion The conversation also tackled the gender gap in digital health, with Minister Ingabire calling for the design of solutions that consider women’s needs. “From AI-driven diagnostics to telemedicine, technology has the power to expand healthcare access—if built inclusively,” she said. Panelists, including Dr. Hiba Abuelgasim Fadlelmoula Abdelrahman, Chair of UGHE’s Educational Development and Quality Centre (EDQC), Prof. Abebe Bekele, and Royhaan Folarin, Assistant Professor of Anatomy, shared insights on overcoming barriers to women’s leadership in global health. They emphasized mentorship, sponsorship, and policy reforms as key drivers of a healthcare system that works for everyone. A call to action Minister Ingabire left the audience with a powerful challenge: “Gender equity will not happen unless we demand it, build it, and lead it. Challenge biases, innovate for inclusion, and lift others as you rise.” UGHE remains committed to this mission. Through education, leadership training, and community engagement, the institution is shaping a future where women in health don’t just participate—they lead. Rwanda has made significant strides in gender equity, embedding it in progressive policies and ensuring the active participation of women in leadership across sectors. From government to business, the nation continues to serve as a global model for advancing equality and empowering women. This progress underscores the transformative impact of intentional policies and strong leadership. As a key player in this movement, UGHE is dedicated to empowering women in health through education, mentorship, and inclusive policies, ensuring that gender equity is not just a vision but a lived reality.

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Min Ingabire calls for bold steps in advancing gender equity, accelerating action