The general analysis of the survey on the social activism, leadership potential, and attitudes towards social issues of female students conducted within the framework of the "I Have a Voice" project by the Women's Rights and Gender Equality Public Union. The project is funded by the State Support Agency for Non-Governmental Organizations of the Republic of Azerbaijan.
Medianews.az reports that in the modern era, active participation of youth, especially female students, in public life, development of leadership skills, and representation in decision-making processes are considered one of the main factors conditioning the sustainable development of society. Expanding women’s participation in socio-economic and public processes contributes not only to ensuring gender equality but also to forming a more inclusive, responsible, and innovative society. Although the level of women's participation in education, labor market, and public activities has been increasing in Azerbaijan in recent years, observations show that certain social, psychological, and institutional barriers still exist to fully realize the potential of young women. Considering this reality, one of the main goals of the "I Have a Voice" project implemented was to study the level of social activism among female students, their leadership potential, attitudes toward gender equality, opportunities for self-expression, and social problems encountered in the university environment. The project aimed not only to assess the current situation but also to learn young women’s opinions and suggestions, to amplify their voices to a broader audience, and to determine future directions of activity.
For this purpose, an anonymous survey was conducted among 450 female students studying in various higher education institutions. Since the respondents represented different specialties, courses, and age groups, the obtained results were accepted as reflecting the general views of female students. The anonymous nature of the survey allowed participants to express their opinions more freely and increased the objectivity of the results. The preliminary analysis of the survey results shows that the vast majority of female students want to participate more actively in the public life of society, are interested in developing leadership skills, and highly appreciate the role of women in society’s development. At the same time, a significant portion of respondents noted that the existing opportunities in the university environment are not fully sufficient, that their initiatives are not always supported at the required level, and that their opportunities to participate in decision-making processes are limited. This fact indicates that female students have potential but additional support mechanisms are needed to fully realize this potential. The overall results of the survey also showed that only a small number of respondents are completely satisfied with the current situation.
On the other hand, a certain group critically addressed the current conditions and noted that serious problems exist. The largest group of respondents took a moderate position. Although they acknowledged that some opportunities have been created for the development of women at universities, they emphasized the necessity of expanding these opportunities further. This approach can be considered an important indicator showing that female students approach issues not emotionally but rather objectively and in a balanced manner. Another noteworthy point during the analysis is the observed differences between respondents’ personal activity and their overall evaluation of the university environment. Many participants considered themselves somewhat active in public activities, but overall rated the social activism of female students as moderate. At the same time, although it was determined that the level of awareness about gender equality, leadership, and women’s rights is high, the prevailing opinion was that this knowledge is not fully reflected in practical contexts. These results indicate the importance of continuing awareness-raising activities, supporting student initiatives in universities, and more actively involving young women in decision-making processes.
The survey results overall allow us to say that modern Azerbaijani female students are open to social activism, leadership, and opportunities for personal development. They want to realize their potential, contribute to society, and form as socially responsible citizens. At the same time, their expectations are not limited to individual development only. Respondents considered it important to create a more inclusive environment in universities, encourage female leadership, increase opportunities for volunteering and public activities, expand mentoring programs, and support student initiatives more systematically.
Thus, the conducted survey not only presents a statistical picture of the current situation but also reveals the expectations, needs, and outlook of female students for the future. The obtained results hold important scientific and practical significance for determining future directions of the "I Have a Voice" project, strengthening gender-sensitive policies in universities, developing the leadership potential of young women, and increasing their participation in public decision-making processes.//Musavat.com