Dr. Harriet Mimi Uwineza, the Dean of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences at Victoria University, has urged students and the country at large to embrace differences as unique gifts and called for inclusivity and equity within every facet of life.
Addressing a dialogue organised by Makerere University Business School (MUBS) student Guild, in collaboration with the Gender and Social Affairs Club of Victoria University on Wednesday, March 6, Dr Mimi cautioned against the perils of succumbing to instant gratification and exploiting one’s gender for short-term gains.
She highlighted the transformative journey towards gender awareness, urging the community to embrace differences as unique gifts and advocating for inclusivity and equity within every facet of life.
The Gender Ministry of the Makerere University Business School (MUBS) student Guild, in collaboration with the Gender and Social Affairs Club of Victoria University, orchestrated a thought-provoking Gender Awareness Day at the ADB complex in MUBS.
The event was a prelude to International Women’s Day, serving as a platform for students to engage in candid discussions surrounding gender awareness, empowerment, and inclusion.
Distinguished guests graced the occasion, including Dr. Harriet Mimi and Dr. Khurthum Muzata, responsible for Education at the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA).
As students from MUBS and Victoria University converged, they embarked on a journey of introspection and dialogue, delving into the intricacies of gender dynamics in contemporary society.
One of the notable highlights of the day was the emergence of a vocal contingent of students advocating for men’s rights and shedding light on the often-overlooked challenges faced by men in a world predominantly focused on addressing the rights of the girl child.
This surge in advocacy underscored the importance of fostering holistic conversations surrounding gender equality and acknowledging the multifaceted nature of gender-related issues.
Dr. Mimi, a renowned champion of gender equality, delivered a poignant message on the imperative of fostering understanding, acceptance, and empowerment concerning gender. Drawing inspiration from the proverb, “A cat dreaming of becoming a lion must lose its appetite for rats,” Dr. Mimi eloquently articulated the necessity of sacrificing immediate desires for long-term growth and fulfillment.
Dr. Mimi’s impassioned plea for balance resonated deeply with the audience as she emphasized the importance of achieving equilibrium in various spheres, including physical health, mental and emotional well-being, relationships, career and personal development, financial stability, leisure and recreation, and community and social impact. Through prioritizing long-term growth and fulfillment over instant gratification, individuals could embody the essence of the proverb—transforming themselves into lions guided by patience, perseverance, and a steadfast commitment to societal progress.
In conclusion, Dr. Mimi implored the community to celebrate diversity, harness strengths, and embrace uniqueness as catalysts for creating a more inclusive and equitable society. Her compelling speech left an indelible mark on the audience, inspiring reflection and action towards forging a future where gender equality thrives and individuals are empowered to reach their full potential regardless of gender.
As the echoes of Dr. Mimi’s words lingered in the air, attendees departed with a renewed sense of purpose, determined to champion the cause of gender equality and contribute to the creation of a more just and inclusive world for all.
