https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/20531 2026-05-27T14:08:26Z 2026-05-27T14:08:26Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/146220 2026-05-07T11:39:12Z 2026-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Promoting gender equality at the University of Malta Abstract: This chapter examines the evolution of gender equality measures at the University of Malta, tracing key changes driven by institutional, national, and transnational influences. Historically, the University was a masculine stronghold, with minimal female representation until the 20th century. Significant progress began with the implementation of inclusive education policies in the 1970s, the establishment of the Gender Issues Committee, and the introduction of feminist academic programmes spearheaded by pioneering academics like Mary Darmanin. These efforts were amplified by Malta’s alignment with European Union regulations, which mandated gender equality policies.; Feminist institutional theory provides the framework for this analysis, highlighting the interplay of formal and informal rules in shaping gender norms. A diachronic-synchronic methodology is employed to understand the incremental policy changes and their immediate impacts. Despite advancements, systemic barriers persist, such as underrepresentation of women in STEM fields, leadership roles, and decision-making bodies, reflecting enduring cultural biases and structural inequities. Female academics often face career stagnation due to disproportionate involvement in teaching and administrative tasks which detract from the time that can be devoted to research.; This chapter underscores the critical role of feminist activism, strategic leadership, and international influences in fostering gender equity in higher educational institutions. It concludes with a call for comprehensive institutional reforms, including unconscious bias training, equitable promotion criteria, and continued advocacy to dismantle systemic barriers and promote diversity in higher education.

2026-01-01T00:00:00Z Arvanitidou, Zoi Gasouka, Maria Katsadoros, George https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/145763 2026-04-21T05:48:45Z 2013-06-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Myths and tales as communication links between the university and the local community : the experience of the place of methodological narrative ‘anerades’ of the Faculty of Humanties of the University of the Aegean. Authors: Arvanitidou, Zoi; Gasouka, Maria; Katsadoros, George Abstract: In the context of the contribution of the School of Humanities of the University of the Aegean to the Rhodian society and the development of relations with the Rhodian and Dodecanesean society, a Place of mythological narrative under the name ''Anerades" (Faires)was founded. The program of activities of this establishment is curated by a oordination group which is composed of faculty members of our University and citizen of Rhodes. [excerpt]

2013-06-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/145741 2026-04-17T14:11:03Z 2025-12-01T00:00:00Z

Title: The Għonnella : a symbol of femininity, strength, and cultural continuity Abstract: There are symbols that transcend time, that carry within them stories, emotions, and identity. One of them is the Għonnella, the characteristic women’s garment of Malta, which for centuries accompanied the women of the island in their daily lives, in celebrations, prayers, and in their walks through the streets of Valletta and the villages. The Għonnella, with its black or dark hood that covered the head and body, was much more than a simple garment. It was a reference point of female dignity, social status, and inner strength. It was a way for women to stand with modesty, but also with pride, in a changing world. Today, through actions such as the TRACtion project at the University of Malta, we have the opportunity to revisit these cultural symbols not as museum objects, but as living expressions of identity, creation, and inspiration, and to give voice again to them, of the past, through the creativity of people today. [excerpt]

2025-12-01T00:00:00Z Arvanitidou, Zoi https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/145740 2026-04-17T14:03:58Z 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Is the fashion industry inclusive for all? Authors: Arvanitidou, Zoi Abstract: The population with disabilities represents a quarter of adults and is an estimated $490 billion market in the United States alone. They seek equal rights, possibilities, and opportunities and have great purchasing power. Designers must develop products that fit this population’s body, needs, and skills, promoting autonomy, independence, and quality of life. Thus, they help disabled users and their carers when dressing and undressing (Brogin & Okimoto, 2019). New ideas are needed for a co-design platform dedicated to this population to create inclusive fashion. This platform can positively affect the well-being of millions of citizens with mobility/physical disabilities (Soares et al., 2016). The progress for inclusion in fashion is limited, as one’s abilities are rarely included. Has a designer ever wondered how their clothes would be used by someone with limited use of their hands or how a new pair of pants would work for someone with prosthetics?

2025-01-01T00:00:00Z