Women's Career and Professional Development: Experiences and challenges

Abstract

ABSTRACT Little research has focused on women's career and professional development in developing countries. In this study, six overseas women doctorate students from a range of developing countries were interviewed in order to ascertain their experiences and the challenges they face as a result of undertaking higher academic studies. The study demonstrated that despite their cultural diversity, the women had many characteristics in common. They had the intrinsic motivation to succeed in their career and professional development as independent persons. However, due to the traditional values and cultural expectations of their societies, they felt that starting and maintaining a family was imperative. Success in both needed a combination of hard work, diligence, and determination. The study called for gender sensitisation, especially in developing countries where the analysis of gender issues is still in its infancy. Both men and women need to be aware that women as well as men have career aspirations and that it is possible to share family and other responsibilities.