The University of Global Health Equity (UGHE) believes in action, not just conversation. On March 14, 2025, UGHE hosted Hon. Paula Ingabire, Rwanda’s Minister of ICT and Innovation, at its Butaro campus for a discussion on #AccelerateAction as part of its International Women’s Day celebration. 

Students, faculty, and staff gathered to reflect on how we can move beyond awareness and take bold steps to close gender gaps in healthcare, technology, and leadership. Minister Ingabire delivered a powerful message: “Health, equity, and gender equality are linked. Women make up most of the healthcare workforce worldwide, but they are underrepresented, not just in leadership and policymaking, but even in access to healthcare services. We must change that.” 

Beyond Representation: Women Leading Change 

Minister Ingabire emphasized that true gender equity goes beyond representation. While having women in leadership is important, she stressed that their presence must translate into real influence. “It’s not just about having women in leadership; it’s about ensuring they have the power to drive change,” she stated. 

UGHE is turning this vision into reality. Its Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) program maintains a 70% female enrolment policy, ensuring more women enter the medical field. Through its Centre for Gender Equity (CGE), they integrate gender equity into research, teaching, and policies, fostering an environment where women thrive. “Equity doesn’t happen by accident. It happens when we design policies and systems that uplift women and give them equal opportunities,” said Dr. Shivon Byamukama, UGHE’s Deputy Vice Chancellor for Administrative and Financial Affairs. 

Breaking Barriers: Men as Allies in Gender Equity 

Prof. Abebe Bekele, Deputy Vice Chancellor of Academics and Research Affairs at UGHE, urged men to be active allies in advancing gender equity, emphasizing that the movement is unstoppable. “If you can’t support women, at least don’t be the sticky floor, women can jump,” he stated, highlighting the importance of removing barriers rather than reinforcing them. He also encouraged women to persist in leadership, adding, “If you’re not invited to the table, bring your own chair.”  

Technology, Healthcare, and the Power of Inclusion 

The discussion also highlighted the urgent need to bridge gender gaps in digital health. Minister Ingabire urged institutions to “design solutions with women in mind.” From AI-driven diagnostics to telemedicine, technology has the power to expand healthcare access – if built inclusively. 

Panelists, including Dr. Hiba Abuelgasim Fadlelmoula Abdelrahman, Chair of the UGHE’s Educational Development and Quality Centre (EDQC), Prof. Abebe Bekele, Deputy Vice Chancellor of Academics and Research Affairs and Royhaan Folarin, Assistant Professor of Anatomy at UGHE, shared insights on overcoming barriers to women’s leadership in global health. They stressed the importance of mentorship, sponsorship, and policy reforms to create a healthcare system that works for everyone. 

A Call to Action: Lead, Innovate, and Lift Others 

Minister Ingabire left the audience with a challenge: “Gender equity will not happen unless we demand it, build it, and lead it. Challenge biases, innovate for inclusion, and lift others as you rise.” 

UGHE is committed to this mission. Through education, leadership training, and community engagement, UGHE is building a future where women in health don’t just participate, they lead. 

In Rwanda, gender equity is no longer just a goal or aspiration, it has become a tangible reality, reflected in its progressive policies and the active participation of women in leadership roles across various sectors. From government to business, Rwanda continues to set an example for the world in advancing equality and empower women to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s development. This progress shows that intentional policies and leadership can drive real change.  

As a key partner in this movement, UGHE remains dedicated to empowering women in health through education, mentorship, and inclusive policies