HERS-EA Programs
Annual HERS-EA Leadership Academy
The HERS-EA Leadership Academy is a one-week intensive leadership training program using a HERS-EA Leadership and management development curriculum which equips women with skills needed to advance their personal career development and successfully navigate the institutional environment where they operate. It also provides great networking opportunities for developing strategic partnerships that can lead to mutually beneficial research collaborations and mentorship. The program is focused on managing and leading change, human resource development and institutional effectiveness. The Academy prepares every participant to strengthen and expand her leadership skills by working closely with HERS-EA resource persons and staff. HERS-EA is one of the most compelling leadership development opportunities for women in HEIs in East Africa as participants have a chance to shape the Academy to meet their unique individual and professional needs and to act as change agents at their institutions. Thus far, HERS-EA has conducted six successful annual Academies (in summer) training over 179 women from approximately 22 HEIs in EA and USA.
Leadership Projects
During the HERS-EA leadership Academy, participants are introduced to developing leadership projects which are eventually converted into fundable proposals. HERS-EA offers selected workshops (virtual and in-person) during the year to reinforce the concepts introduced during the Academy. The leadership projects are reviewed and refined in order to submit them to funding agencies. In 2022, one project was funded by Alliance for African Partnerships (AAP). HERS-EA actively seeks collaboration opportunities with existing programs or institutions to integrate successful projects into ongoing initiatives. HERS-EA also provides continuous mentorship and support to project leaders, empowering them to navigate challenges and maintain momentum. Participants are encouraged to leverage local resources and networks to sustain their projects within their institutions or communities, thus solidifying the long-term viability of their initiatives.
HERS-EA supports applicants who receive grant awards to implement all proposed activities successfully including grant close out and submission of all required reports and scholarly publications.
Research Collaborations
HERS-EA through its pool of researchers partners with institutions and organizations to conduct research-led projects.
Community Empowerment
HERS-EA's community outreach initiative focuses on livelihood and poverty reduction through sustainable projects implemented in underprivileged communities. One such project is the Poultry Project, which offers training in poultry farming and sustainable agriculture to disadvantaged men and women. Participants are empowered to generate income and contribute to local food security through provision of poultry, tools, and capacity building support. Similarly, HERS-EA addresses menstrual health challenges and economic vulnerability through the provision of reusable sanitary products. The initiative not only promotes menstrual hygiene but also creates jobs, economic stability, and empowerment for women.