Jeannette Bayisenge is an Associate Professor of Gender Studies with a strong track record in both academia and public service. Over the past two decades, her work has been dedicated to advancing gender equality, women’s empowerment, and social justice through teaching, research, policy development, and strategic leadership. She has held senior leadership roles in the Government of Rwanda, notably serving as Minister of Public Service and Labour and Minister of Gender and Family Promotion. Prior to these roles, she spent over 15 years at the University of Rwanda, where she served as the Director of the Centre for Gender Studies. Her research focuses primarily on gender equality, and the rights and empowerment of women and girls.
Integrating Gender in Social Work for Resilient Communities and Transformative Change
Abstract
The keynote address explores the interconnectedness and mutual reinforcement between Gender,Social Work, Community Resilience, and Transformative Change. It examines how integrating gender perspectives into social work education and practice can drive profound shifts in communities, leading to transformative change. Gender inequality remains a significant challenge in many societies, shaped by cultural norms, patriarchal structures, and economic disparities.Social work, with its focus on social justice, human rights, and community empowerment, plays a crucial role in addressing these inequalities and fostering resilient communities.The keynote emphasizes the importance of incorporating gender-sensitive curricula in social work education,equipping students with the tools to understand, challenge gender inequality, and advocate for policy reform. It also highlights how integrating gender perspectives into social work practices equips practitioners with the skills to advocate for and empower marginalized groups, particularly women, thereby enhancing community resilience.
By adopting a holistic and intersectional approach and recognizing the distinct gendered experiences of individuals, social work education and practice equip students and practitioners to engage meaningfully with complex gender dynamics and oppressive power structures. This foundation empowers them to advocate for systemic change that advances gender equality and fosters just societies. Integrating gender perspectives into social work education and practice, while addressing gendered vulnerabilities, and promoting inclusive participation make social work vital to building equitable, resilient, and inclusive communities. It not only enhances immediate Community resilience but also drives long-term transformative change needed to create just, Equitable, and sustainable societies.