Initiative seeks to increase male representation in underrepresented fields

Norway is taking steps to address gender imbalances in higher education by focusing on recruiting more men in underrepresented fields such as healthcare, social care, and education. A report from the Men’s Equality Commission established in 2022 by a Royal Decree has recommended a 10-year plan to address the growing gender differences in higher education.

The report, titled The next steps of gender equality, highlights the need for a comprehensive and long-term national initiative to encourage more boys to enroll in fields where they are currently underrepresented. Currently, only 40% of students in higher education in Norway are men, with a particularly low proportion in teacher training, pedagogy, health, social care, and sports subjects.

In response to the report, Norway’s Minister of Culture and Equality Lubna Jaffery emphasized the importance of addressing men’s equality challenges, noting that men rank highest in suicide rates, young boys drop out of school more often than girls, and men do not complete higher education in the same proportion as women.

The commission’s proposals, including the introduction of a quota system for underrepresented genders and measures to help men succeed in these study fields, have been positively received by higher education institutions and other stakeholders. Professor Bjørn Stensaker from the University of Oslo expressed support for using quotas as an effective tool to address underrepresentation in certain disciplines.

Overall, the report aims to promote gender equality by addressing both women’s and men’s equality challenges in higher education and beyond. With a focus on inclusivity and diversity, Norway is taking proactive steps towards a more balanced and equitable society.