Nottingham Trent University (NTU) will be proudly hosting a week-long series of events on various locations across campuses to mark International Women’s Day this year.
These will consist of workshops, lectures and discussions on various issues that concern how women are being seen in society and in the workplace.
We asked students where they stand on women’s rights and equality between genders.
Second year Journalism student Emilia Roman, 20, said it is important to raise awareness about gender equality as “people usually do not realise the struggles that come within being a woman”.
She said: “For example, there is a misconception that women cannot be scientists or work in more technical sectors. We are still underestimated in society.”
Important local figures and inspirational NTU alumni will be attending this programme with the aim to inspire both women and men about gender equality.
Second year Psychology student Esme McCoy, 20, said: “I think the situation has improved in the UK, definitely. There are some areas that are still perceived as ‘taboo topics’ such as sexual assault, abuse, porn and consent.”
She said: “It is annoying that some people do not understand what the real problems are. I want to become a sex therapist because I am interested about topics related to that”.
The panel for International Women’s Day will include discussions and workshops on struggles faced by LGBTQ+ people.
Esme, 20, added: “There are also issues regarding how gay women are seen in our society and how gay relationships between women are being fetishised. Moreover, the situation we have in western countries is different from the situation some people living in the third world have to face.”
Also a Welfare Officer of the Feminism Society, Esme will be hosting the series of events starting on Monday, March 2.
She and other members of the society showed their enthusiasm about the event as they will be asking questions and participating in discussions.
“Although I do not agree with some of the third-wave concepts, I still consider myself a feminist.
“In an ideal world, everyone is a feminist”, she added.
Students say “more needs to be done” about gender equality and this programme of events is a great opportunity for young people to understand the current issues women have to deal with when looking for job opportunities.
Second year Sociology student Daisy Rorke, 20, said: “There is this idea that white men get paid better than women do, and they also get more hiring opportunities.
“Having these sorts of events reduces the stigma that women are not as capable as men.”
The gender pay gap has been on the mind of various female students alongside other issues related to misogyny and lack of equality.
Second year Psychology student Meghan Hart, 20, said: “If you are a girl, people will always tell you not to drink too much, to be safe when you go out and so on. ”
“People always underestimate our capabilities, in my opinion.
“These events sound very interesting and I will definitely consider going”, she added.
To see more details about the programme of the events, please visit the NTU’s website.
By Olimpia Zagnat