STUDY OF GENDER DISCRIMINATION IN THE UNIVERSITIES OF KAZAKHSTAN

Abstract

This research examines the prevalence of gender discrimination in universities of Kazakhstan. By employing Morley's micropolitics framework, this study focuses on the experiences of people and groups in order to understand how gendered power relations operate within universities. Three dependent variables were established through a survey and focus group discussions: gender-based undervaluation, sexual objectification, and sexual harassment. According to the findings, female students are significantly more likely to face all three types of discrimination. Personal accounts of discrimination were shared during the focus group discussions, including biased grading and feedback, sexual remarks, stalking, and sexual assault. Recommendations are provided for university administrations, the Ministry of Education, and the Mazhilis of Parliament to address these issues, such as developing anti-discrimination and harassment policies, offering education and training, and establishing reporting procedures.