Amina Jaji

Amina Jaji

Demographic Data:
Age; 27
Highest Qualification; MSc
Occupation/Job Role; Lecturer
Religion; Islam
Years of experience working in the built environment field within higher education: 2 years

• Can you tell me about your experience working in higher education within the built environment sector in Northern Nigeria/Greater Cairo?

Answer: Working in higher education within the built environment sector in Northern Nigeria is challenging but offers the opportunity to contribute and give back to the society.

• What motivated you to pursue a career in higher education in the built environment field? (prompt: Passion for creating inclusive and equitable spaces for learning, a desire to challenge traditional gender roles in the field, and a commitment to empowering future generations through education).

Answer: Commitment to empowering future generations through education

• What is your race/ethnic group? How do you think intersectionality, including factors such as race, ethnicity, and sexual orientation, plays a role in gender diversity within the built environment field in higher education?

Answer: I am Yoruba and ethnicity doesn’t really play a vital role because we are all treated equally.

• In your opinion, what are some of the main challenges faced by female academics in higher education within the built environment sector in Northern Nigeria/Greater Cairo? (prompt: Have you personally encountered any gender-based obstacles in your academic career? If so, could you share some examples)

Answer: I have never experienced any gender-based obstacles before.

• How do you perceive the current opportunities for female academics in the built environment sector in Northern Nigeria/Greater Cairo?

Answer: The turn up of female academics in the built environment sector here in the north is quite alarming compared to before.

• Are there any specific initiatives or programs in place to address gender-based inequities and promote greater diversity and inclusion in higher education within the built environment field in Northern Nigeria/Greater Cairo?

Answer: No

• How do you approach challenges and obstacles in your work? What strategies have you used to overcome any challenges related to gender in your career? (prompt: Seeking out mentorship from successful women in the field, advocating for equal opportunities and representation, and standing up against gender bias or discrimination when encountered).

Answer: I’ve never encountered such before

• Have you received any formal training or education related to your current position? Have you completed any relevant certifications or degrees? Have you had any mentors or role models who have influenced your professional journey? (senior colleagues or industry experts)

Answer: Yes, I have a post graduate diploma in education before delving deep into academics.

• How do you balance your professional responsibilities with your personal life and self-care practices?

Answer: It’s all about planning and scheduling so as to make balance between work and other things.

• What are your long-term goals and aspirations within the built environment of higher education? (prompt: Do you aspire to become a leader in your field or contribute to innovative projects within the industry?)

Answer: I aspire to grow in this field.

• What advice would you give to someone looking to enter the built environment of higher education? (prompt: Networking with professionals in the field, staying updated on industry trends, being open to continuous learning and growth, and gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteer opportunities can provide valuable insights and help build a strong foundation for a successful career in the built environment of higher education).

Answer: I’d advise them to network and also keep learning because learning never ends.

• In what ways do you think the broader societal and cultural norms context in Northern Nigeria/Greater Cairo influences gender disparities within the built environment field, and how can these be addressed effectively?

Answers: Women should be given more freedom to explore and also the privilege to execute not only in academics but also in all other field of work.

• In your opinion, what role can institutions and stakeholders play in promoting gender equity and creating a more supportive and inclusive environment for female academics in the built environment field?

Answer: To promote gender equity, more supportive groups are needed so as to support women.

• Is there anything else that you would like to share?

Answer: No