Examining challenges facing women pursuing doctorate degrees in Ghana
Date
2022-05
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Abstract
This study examines the challenges faced by women pursuing doctorate degrees in
Ghana using doctorate students from the University of Ghana as the case study. While
women's participation in education in Ghana has improved significantly over the past
years, data suggests that women are still missing at higher levels of education, especially
at the doctorate level. Using a phenomenological hermeneutic approach to qualitative research, this study
aims to understand gender-specific differences in the key identity transition from student
to a scholar for men and women pursuing PhDs in Ghana. Identifying these challenges will
help policymakers know how to better support women through their gender-specific
challenges and could help increase the ranks and number of women relative to men in
teaching and research roles within universities. Primary data was collected through semistructured interviews with male and female doctorate students at the University of Ghana.
Transcripts from the research were analysed using thematic analysis.
The results show that women in this study are under much more pressure from
society than men to perform certain gender roles or meet societal gender expectations.
Compared to men, women’s gender roles and expectations more often clashed with roles
and expectations of their emerging scholarly identity, causing tension. These tensions make
the PhD journey more challenging for women, especially married women compared to
men. It is recommended that the government and higher education institutions provide
priority funding for married women with dependents during the PhD programs. Also, PhD
lecturers and supervisors should be more empathetic toward PhD students balancing family
demands with intense academic programs.
Description
Undergraduate thesis submitted to the Department of Business Administration, Ashesi University, in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the award of Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration
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Undergraduate Thesis
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Citation
Chebesi, D.N (2022). Examining Challenges Facing Women Pursuing Doctorate Degress in Ghana, Undergraduate thesis. Ashesi University, Berekuso. 71pgs.