THRIVE: Gender Mainstreaming for Inclusive Excellence in Academia

The THRIVE project is a multi-country strategic initiative aimed at enhancing gender equality and inclusion within Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in Latin America, with a particular focus on Costa Rica and Bolivia. Its core objective is to support these institutions in strengthening their governance, internationalisation and accessibility frameworks by co-designing a capacity-building strategy that integrates gender-sensitive governance models and fosters equitable learning environments. This approach directly addresses persistent gender disparities in academia, while fostering access to international cooperation. To achieve its aims, the THRIVE project will:- strengthen HEIs' staff capacity in adopting gender mainstreaming and inclusive governance strategies. Activities will focus on raising awareness about gender equality, developing strategies and practical tools to implement inclusive governance and fostering a gender-sensitive institutional culture;- foster an inclusive environment that supports female students, particularly those from vulnerable backgrounds, in accessing academic and professional opportunities. Key activities will involve the establishment of support schemes through outreach programmes as well as providing mentoring, career guidance and active participation in international activities;- build sustainable allyship among HEIs and stakeholders to ensure the long-term impact of gender equality initiatives. This will include the creation of an international network of HEIs, policymakers and advocacy organisations, which will work collaboratively to mainstream gender equality in academic governance and beyond.Through these activities, the project will create a lasting impact by fostering a more inclusive academic environment in Latin America and enhancing opportunities for women in both academic and professional spheres, while promoting long-term collaboration and knowledge exchange at Regional level and with European institutions.