The Institute for Gender and Development Studies (IGDS) advanced its strategic objectives during the 2024/2025 academic year through strengthened international and regional collaborations, increased research output, and impactful outreach. The IGDS’s work focused on widening access to gender-related education and training, supporting the implementation of The UWI Gender Policy, enhancing research and publications, and fostering activism and advocacy.

ACCESS AND ACADEMIC PROGRAMMES

A total of 1,120 undergraduate students and 104 graduate students registered in IGDS courses across Mona, Nita Barrow, and St. Augustine units, with additional students in the Regional Coordinating Office. Course development progressed for new programmes, including an MSc, Diploma, and Certificate in Gender Justice, Activism, and Sustainable Development, to be launched by the International School for Development Justice. The IGDS also delivered innovative training materials to external partners, including toolkits and modules on sexual harassment, gender equality, and human rights for organisations such as UNDP, UNESCO, and JASL.

Capacity Building and Outreach

The IGDS facilitated training and mentorship programmes for diverse groups, including government, NGOs, and youth, supported by international agencies such as UN Women and the YMCA. Notable initiatives covered unpaid care work, gender-based violence, and climate resilience. The Institute also provided professional development workshops and introduced new strategies to enhance graduate employability and leadership.

Research and Publications

Research output exceeded UWI targets, comprising three edited books, 14 book chapters, 10 peer-reviewed journal articles, several technical reports, and policy toolkits. Major research projects addressed gender and health, Indigenous studies, gender-based violence, and care work, with external funding from bodies such as CDB, UNDP, and UNESCO. The IGDS contributed expertise to regional and international research clusters and continued developing ethical research protocols for Indigenous communities.

Activism, Advocacy, and Events

The IGDS actively participated in public advocacy, commemorating global observances such as International Women’s Day and the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. The Institute hosted and contributed to regional conferences, symposia, and exhibitions, including the 11th World Conference on Women’s Studies in Bali and the 30th IGDS Anniversary Exhibition. Collaboration with local and international stakeholders reinforced the IGDS’s commitment to gender justice, climate action, and cultural heritage.

Recognition and Awards

IGDS staff and students received several accolades, including the Principal’s Award for Excellence and fellowships for leadership in economic thought and service. The School for Graduate Studies was renamed in honour of Emerita Professor V. Eudine Barriteau. IGDS’s research and impact on policy and public service were recognised at the campus and regional levels.

Financial Sustainability

The IGDS mobilised significant resources through tuition, grants, and project funding, supporting both academic and outreach activities. Key grants funded research, training, and advocacy programmes across all campus units.

Policy Implementation

Steps continued towards implementing the revised UWI Gender Policy, with ongoing training of Gender Task Force members and efforts to centralise policy tracking. Regional training will resume in the next academic year, with a focus on data-driven implementation.

Conclusion

In 2024/2025, the IGDS demonstrated agility and leadership in advancing gender justice across the Caribbean and beyond. Through its academic, research, advocacy, and policy initiatives, the Institute remains a key driver in shaping a more equitable and inclusive society.