Title: Negotiating Gender Norms: Youth Perceptions Through a Feminist Lens at the University of Rajshahi
Authors: Snighdha Ghosh, Md. Mahbubul Alam, Nazmul Hasan Raz, Samira Anjum, Joya Sen, Sidul Hoque Rahat, Md Nayeem Hasan
Volume: 10
Issue: 2
Pages: 94-99
Publication Date: 2026/02/28
Abstract:
This research looks at how feminism is perceived in a university culture of Bangladesh, with the University of Rajshahi being used as the case. Guided by feminist theoretical perspectives and mixed methods design, survey findings from 230 students are juxtaposed with qualitative reflections grounded in secondary literature. Results reveal that, overall, the majority of business students do have positive attitudes toward feminist concepts and think about feminism in terms of gender equality and women's rights. But some major fallacies are still in play, like the notion that feminism is anti-male, too political, or foreign to one's culture. Although a large number of respondents agree that feminism applies to higher education and has the potential to increase inclusivity, many are indifferent or ambivalent on these matters, suggesting minimal formal exposure to feminist theory. Incidents of students or faculty facing gendered biases are another significant reminder that structural inequalities prevail in academic settings. The article contends that universities are important sites for the encounters between global and local feminist ideas about socio-cultural norms. It argues that more robust curricular linking, institutional mandates and inclusive pedagogical practices are necessary to support informed and contextually sensitive understandings of feminism among young people.