Women in higher education under debate

Last week, the BCI Media Library on the Island of Mozambique hosted a meeting that brought together teachers, students and community members for an in-depth discussion on the challenges and opportunities for women in higher education in the north of the country. The Round Table, promoted by the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities at UniLúrio, was part of the celebrations of Women's Month and the 50th anniversary of National Independence, highlighting the transformative role of education in the development of Mozambique.

The event stood out for its strong interactivity and active involvement of the public. In a environment marked by motivation and emotion, the invited speakers presented reflections

powerful that reinforced the call for gender equity in academic institutions and the valorization of women in the national academic scene.

The debates were led by female leaders — including directors of faculties and heads of strategic sectors at UniLúrio —, which gave even more relevance to the day of reflection.

Among the interventions, Télcia Manhique Madeira, from the Faculty of Natural Sciences, inspired the audience with reflections based on the work "From the Dream Country to the Lived Country: Mozambique 1975–2025", pointing out challenges and achievements on the path to equality in higher education. Elsa Assiaty Agostinho, from the Faculty of Engineering, highlighted the advances and obstacles that marked half a century of independence, with a special focus on the educational trajectory of women in the north of the country. Benilda Cololo, from the Faculty of Architecture and Physical Planning, presented an integrated vision that linked demography, public policies and gender equity, launching a clear call for continued investment in female education. Ana Nércia Manhiça, from Unilúrio Business School, highlighted the importance of including women in university leadership positions, with special attention to the northern region, while Bernardette Manhiça, from the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, offered a contextual reading on the challenges and opportunities faced by women in the social sciences and humanities, particularly in the reality of the Island of Mozambique.

On the same occasion, BCI provided a moment to present its products and services, reaffirming the institution's commitment to the economic and social development of the communities in which it operates.

By hosting this event, BCI reaffirms its role as an active promoter of initiatives that drive academic progress and contribute to a more inclusive and fair society. More than just a debate, this Round Table at the BCI Media Library represented a firm step in the consolidation of strategic partnerships and in the promotion of social transformation that begins with education and the empowerment of women.