Covenant University SDGs

5.1.1 Overview

Gender equality is a fundamental principle of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 5, which seeks to empower all women and girls while achieving equal opportunities for all. Covenant University is dedicated to cultivating an inclusive and diverse environment where both men and women can thrive equally. This commitment is reflected in our initiatives across key areas such as admissions, staff recruitment, promotions, conference sponsorships, scholarships, and academic research on gender equality.

5.2.1 Equitable Admissions at Covenant University

Covenant University is committed to fostering equal opportunities through equitable admission policies that prioritize academic merit and potential, free from gender bias. Our processes are designed to ensure fairness, supporting a balanced gender ratio within the student population. Special emphasis is placed on encouraging female participation, particularly in traditionally male-dominated fields like science, technology, and engineering, reflecting our dedication to inclusivity and diversity.

5.2.2 Fostering a Gender-Diverse Workforce

Covenant University is dedicated to building a gender-diverse workforce by ensuring equal employment opportunities for all. Our recruitment practices are designed to attract and retain talented individuals across academic and administrative roles, regardless of gender. Policies are in place to support the inclusion of women, with recruitment panels trained to eliminate biases and promote fairness. As a result, the gender representation among faculty and non-academic staff is well-balanced, reflecting our commitment to diversity and equality in the workplace.

5.2.3 Gender Equality Through Transparent Promotion Policies

Covenant University upholds a transparent, merit-based promotion policy that fosters gender equality. Female faculty and staff are encouraged to pursue promotions, with equitable evaluation criteria applied to all candidates. Regular assessments ensure that promotion policies remain free from implicit gender bias. To further support career development, mentorship programs empower female staff to advance into leadership roles. Additionally, the Faculty Women Association (FWA) serves as a vital platform for empowering female academics across Nigeria, showcasing Covenant University’s dedication to gender inclusivity in higher education.

5.2.4. Supporting Professional Growth Through Conference Sponsorship

Covenant University is committed to fostering professional development by sponsoring faculty members, including female staff, to attend and present at academic conferences. This initiative promotes female representation in national and international forums, amplifying their voices in key academic discussions. In recent years, the university has increased budget allocations to support conference participation on topics such as leadership and gender equality. These efforts highlight Covenant University’s dedication to advancing gender diversity and inclusivity in academia.

5.2.5. Empowering Students Through Gender-Inclusive Scholarships

Covenant University is committed to promoting gender equality by offering scholarship programs that support indigent students, including women, particularly in underrepresented fields. The university’s work-study program ensures a balanced selection of beneficiaries across genders. Postgraduate scholarships are specifically designed to reduce financial barriers and encourage more women to pursue advanced education. Targeted funding for initiatives in gender equality, leadership, and STEM fields has been pivotal in empowering female students. Additionally, financial aid is equitably distributed, ensuring that access to quality education is not limited by gender.

5.2.6. Advancing Gender Equality Through Research and Sponsorships

Covenant University is dedicated to enriching the global discourse on gender equality through impactful academic research and publications. Faculty members actively explore topics such as women’s empowerment, gender-based policy development, and leadership, producing work that influences policy-making and raises awareness of gender issues across Africa. The university’s research agenda includes collaborations with institutions and organizations committed to achieving SDG 5.

Additionally, Covenant University supports postgraduate research on gender-related topics, funding dissertations and theses that contribute to advancing knowledge and driving meaningful change. Below is a table showcasing recent postgraduate research on gender equality conducted within the university.

5.3.1. Join us

Covenant University’s dedication to gender equality is evident in its policies and initiatives across various domains. From admission practices to staff recruitment, promotion policies, conference sponsorship, scholarships, and academic contributions, the university continues to make strides towards fostering a gender-equitable environment. Covenant University is committed to continuous improvement in its pursuit of gender equality, aligning with the global goals set forth by the United Nations. The university’s ongoing initiatives serve as a testament to its commitment to creating a more inclusive and diverse academic community.