A ‘transformative’ course

University of Pune launches an MA programme in gender, culture and development studies.

University of Pune's Krantijyoti Savitribai Phule Women's Studies Centre is going to start an MA programme in gender, culture and development studies this year. The application deadline is July 20. Selection will be through a written test and interview slated for July 27.

HT Image

Students may opt for a one-year diploma programme instead of a two-year MA, both open to graduates in any discipline.
The University Grants Commission-sponsored centre is offering scholarships/ freeships/ fellowships to select students.

The inter-disciplinary programme is meant to build upon the student's undergraduate specialisation and offer him/ her more viable and wider career options diverse fields. Students are supposed to develop the skills of using primary sources and audio-visual tools; training in research methodologies and academic writing; analysing contemporary issues using feminist perspectives; writing press notes, newspaper features; analysing structures, strategies and semiotic codes in film/TV etc; summarising and analysing statistical reports/ policy recommendations; among other things. The centre will allow them to take credit courses in other departments.

The new programme “is a part of our centre's commitment to reinventing higher education to address the question of egalitarianism in the practices and content of higher education,” says a press communication from the institute named after the first woman teacher of modern India.

Set up in 1987, the centre is involved in teaching, research, seminars and workshops, documentation and publication, extension and networking.

Limited seats would be given in the university hostel for both men and women. The centre may informally help other outstation enrolees to find accommodation.