DAR ES SALAAM TUMAINI UNIVERSITY
(DarTU)
GENDER DESK
1. Introduction
The Gender Desk Unit at DarTU was established in 2022. The Desk is responsible for coordinating programs, workshops, training sessions, awareness campaigns, research projects, and policy development initiatives and activities designed and intended to address gender inequalities, gender-based discrimination, and thereby facilitate promotion of gender equality and equity in all operations and activities of the University. To that end, it ensures that the dignity and rights of both women and men are equally respected and valued. Through the Gender Desk, DarTU aims to create an inclusive and supportive environment for all students and staff regardless of gender identity or expression.
The unit is headed by a Coordinator who is assisted by the University’s school-level gender desk members who, in some capacities, simplify the accessibility of gender-based services to the stakeholders, particularly students.
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2. Main Objectives of the Desk
The Gender Desk Unit at DarTU is committed to fostering a culture of equality and respect within the university community. To achieve this mission, the Desk has outlined several key objectives:
i) To ensure that opportunities and benefits are equally accessible to the University community;
ii) To provide an environment that responds to and addresses gender concerns in all activities at the University through awareness seminars and events;
iii) To offer counseling and support services to individuals who have experienced gender-based discrimination or violence as well as University life balance counseling in general;
iv) To promote gender-responsive research and disseminate the findings; and
v) To establish linkages, partnerships, and collaborations in gender and
3. Responsibilities of the Gender Desk
The Gender Desk Unit at DarTU plays a crucial role in promoting gender equality and addressing gender-related issues within the university. The primary responsibilities of the Desk include:
i) Coordinate with various departments, student organizations, and external partners to develop and implement programs, workshops, and events related to gender equality and diversity.
ii) Provide support and guidance to individuals and groups working on gender-related projects or initiatives.
iii) Organize workshops, seminars, and training sessions for students, staff and service providers on topics related to gender equality.
iv) Provide in-confidence support and resources to students, and staff who have experienced gender-based discrimination, harassment, or violence.
v) Communicate with campus counseling services units, health centers, and external support organizations to ensure individuals receive appropriate assistance and referrals.
vi) Provide and implement effective procedures to manage complaints and ensure consistency in handling issues associated with sexual harassment and discrimination
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4. Guiding Policies
The Gender Desk is charged with facilitating implementation of two gender related policies, namely;
- The Gender Policy
- Anti-Sexual Harassment and Anti-Discrimination Policy.
5. Community Engagement
The Gender Desk Unit at DarTU coordinates with various public and private institutions through partnerships and networks facilitated by the university. These collaborations involve organizations such as the Tanzania Media Women’s Association (TAMWA), Crisis Resolving Centre (CRC), Ministry of Community Development, Gender and Children, Ministry of Education Science and Technology, Tanzania Gender Network Program (TGNP), Human Trafficking Agencies, Culture and Development East Africa (CDEA), social workers, and gender desks at police stations, among others.