KAMPALA, UGANDA – Euzobia Mugisha Baine, Director of Gender Mainstreaming at Makerere University, has dedicated her career to bridging the gender gap in higher education and science.
In an interview with Nature, Mugisha Baine shared her personal experiences and motivations for becoming a champion of women’s empowerment.
Growing up, Mugisha Baine witnessed her widowed mother’s struggles to maintain their family’s land, inspiring her to tackle gender discrimination.
“My father’s death showed me the reality of women’s vulnerability,” she said. “I saw how neighbours tried to grab our land, and I realized that women’s empowerment was crucial.”
Mugisha Baine credits influential women, including Joy Kwesiga, co-founder of Action for Development (ACFODE), for shaping her vision.
“Kwesiga acted as my mentor, and I am who I am because of her,” she said.
At Makerere University, Mugisha Baine has driven initiatives to promote gender equality, including scholarships for women in STEM fields and policies to prevent sexual harassment.
“Gender inclusion is now part of every activity at Makerere,” she said. “We’ve increased the number of female professors from 2 in 2004 to 11 full professors and 41 associate professors today.”
Mugisha Baine advises young women interested in research to prioritize multitasking, understanding their field, and seeking mentors.
“The biggest misconception about academia is that qualifications alone make a leader,” she said. “Integrity, communication skills, and people skills are equally important.”
Despite facing bias as a working mother, Mugisha Baine persevered, completing her PhD while raising her children.
“I wanted to have six children, and people thought my fourth child at 43 was accidental,” she said, laughing. “It was intentional.”
Mugisha Baine’s dedication to gender equality has transformed Makerere University, paving the way for future generations of women in science.
