Ben-Gurion University Recognized for Excellence in Gender Equity
Just ahead of International Women’s Day, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev received official recognition from the Council for Higher Education as an institution excelling in gender equity, placing it in the highest-ranking Category A in this field. This distinction comes with a financial grant of 250,000 shekels, most of which will be allocated to supporting female doctoral students at the university.
The decision was based on a comprehensive report submitted by the university, detailing its efforts in promoting gender equity over the years. The council’s decision stated:
"The committee was highly impressed by Ben-Gurion University’s dedicated efforts to advance gender equity and commends the increase in the percentage of women in senior academic positions, including associate and full Professorships."
Indeed, Ben-Gurion University has made significant strides since the launch of the Council for Higher Education’s "Equity Line" initiative. Five years ago, only one woman held a senior leadership position among the university’s 18 top administrators. Today, seven women serve in key roles: two vice presidents, a deputy rector, and four deans. The report also highlighted a more than 10% increase in the representation of women leading academic departments and programs, as well as in their participation on faculty appointment committees.
Yet, there is still much work to be done. As Prof. Yael Hashiloni-Dolev, the university president’s advisor on gender equity, explains:
"Many challenges remain ahead, particularly in recruiting young female researchers, increasing gender diversity in the faculties of natural sciences and engineering, encouraging women to pursue postdoctoral opportunities, and advancing them through academic ranks. To meet these goals, our office continues to lead initiatives such as a senior female researchers’ leadership workshop, gender equity training for educators, and workshops addressing implicit biases in recruitment and promotion processes."
According to Prof. Hashiloni-Dolev, her office also provides support for graduate students seeking to attend conferences to further their professional development. Additionally, the university organizes events such as "Women in Science Day", which highlights the achievements of female students.
She further emphasized:
"International Women’s Day and the Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women remind us of the ongoing need to build a more just society. The university is committed to creating a safe institutional environment, operating a special tribunal for sexual harassment cases, and maintaining gender-inclusive language policies. Additionally, our office actively supports student organizations advocating for gender equity, aiming to pave the way for future generations."
