Barriers, Mentors and Progress: Journeys in International Higher Education

Think Education

In this latest Think Education podcast, Chris and Judith talk to Dr Lobar Babakhodjaeva, Associate Professor, Global Education Department, Westminster International University in Tashkent – Uzbekistan. We spoke to Lobar about her journey through education, to senior leadership, to a focus on her research and teaching.

This podcast is the latest over the past year, grounded in our ongoing interest on voices and journeys in education and is linked to the book we are currently finishing (writing, not reading) that has a particular focus on the role of women in international higher education.

Lobar talked about the role of mentors in her life and career development and how important this is to develop leadership capabilities and awareness of what is possible.

We talked about the importance of normalizing equal access and opportunity for both boys and girls. Both Lobar and Judith shared stories about experiences they have had where gender was seen as a barrier – or at the very least, a challenge.

Lobar wrote a post following the podcast - https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7213593511944699905/ - where she outlines more of her experience and poses the following questions for comments:

1. What are the challenges faced by female leaders in higher education? How many female leaders/managers do you have in your institution?
   2. What was the role of mentors in your career development?
   3. What can HEI do to try to address the inequality and imbalance?

We talked about strategies and approaches for access, development and empowerment and Lobar talked about her experience and the need to not focus on others but make sure you can prove things to yourself.

Progress will be made through continued conversation, increased understanding and meaningful action.

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