The Socio-Cultural Factors Affecting the Rights of Women Academics Advancement to Higher Level Posts in Zimbabwe: The Case of Four Higher Education Institutions.

Abstract

In this research paper, the author discussed the social and cultural factors that impact on the rights of Zimbabwean women with respect to opportunities for academic advancement and employment. The study employed a qualitative research methodology. Furthermore, a descriptive case study design was used. A purposive sample of 20 women academics was used. Semi-structured interview technique was used to gather the data. Interpretive content analysis was used for data analysis. The results indicate that culture plays an important role in the curtailment of women's'
rights to education and employment opportunities. Moreover, the results indicate that the extended family has a role to play in the making of such choices and taking opportunities. A major conclusion is that social interactions between men and women within the probed institutions are imbued with issues of a cultural nature. For example, the payment of a bride price is a negative practice insofar as it perpetuates gender inequality between men and women in Zimbabwean society and in the workplace.