Female Academics Career Development - Stories from Senior Female Academics in Tanzania’s Public Universities

Abstract

This paper investigates the career experiences of female academics in Tanzanian public universities, employing a qualitative methodology to elucidate their career development trajectories. Data were collected through interviews with senior female academics and a comprehensive literature review and analysed using thematic analysis. The findings reveal that career advancement among these women is driven by a desire for professional growth, a commitment to excellence, the influence of role models, family support, efforts to challenge cultural norms, and opportunities provided by scholarships. The study concludes that personal dedication and growth motivation are critical in promoting the career advancement of female academics. It recommends fostering collaborative research, publication, outreach, and consultancy initiatives among male and female academics to support the career development of women in public universities in Tanzania. Keywords: Female academics, Career development, Senior positions, Public universities, Tanzania