Research Institutes, Centres and Units - Universiti Sains Malaysia

Women’s Development
Research Centre (Kanita)
KANITA achieved its current status as an autonomous research centre within the
university on 17 April 2001. The endorsement by the University Senate of KANITA’s
position demonstrates USM’s commitment to lead in the exploration of new thinking
and knowledge that considers gender as an important analytical framework for theory
and research and it reflects the university’s commitment as the APEX university to
meeting the needs by Bottom Billion. KANITA`s commitment is to the Bottom half
– Billion. It also reflects converging efforts and dedication of academic members from
various disciplines towards championing gender equality, equity and justice in the
society, both theoretically and in practice.
Today, KANITA is more matured in issues related to gender and women. Besides,
active in the academe, KANITA is also working closely with other organisations and
bodies that are championing women issues as a way of KANITA’s commitment and
contribution towards the advancement of women in society.
As a centre that aims at influencing policies and programmes KANITA focuses on six
core/thrust areas:
a. Sustainable Development
b. Economic & Social Development
c. Policy and Law
d. Health
e. Family
f. Media & Culture
POSTGRADUATE PROGRAMMES
KANITA offers a graduate programme for those interested in pursuing women
or gender studies by research. Upon completion, they will be awarded a Master
of Social Science (Gender Studies) or a Doctor of Philosophy. Programmes are
designed to produce graduates who are gender-sensitive in various work cultures and
organisations, operating at different levels of planning and management. Graduates
should be competent and comfortable working both in local and foreign organisations.