Paper short abstract:

This paper examines gender and human capital development with evidence from higher institutions in Nigeria. It applies a survey method of research using the questionnaires administered to participaants. Findings show a clear gender disparity in human capital and a patriarchal system and structure.

Paper long abstract:

Expanding opportunities to acquire education has been challenging especially for females when primary school enrolment is considered. The disparity becomes more obvious at secondary and tertiary schooling. This has led to countries focusing attention on gender inequality through Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) that metamorphosed into Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Consequently, this paper examines gender and human capital development with evidence from selected higher institutions in Nigeria. It applies survey method of research using the questionnaires administered to participating higher institutions. It applies Gender Parity Index (GPI) for data analysis. This indicator divides female share of a variable by the male share of such a variable to indicates parity between female and male. A GPI of less than 1 suggests females are more disadvantaged than males and a GPI of greater than 1 suggests the other way around. Findings show a clear gender disparity in human capital development by inference, there is socially constructed negative attitudes towards women as professionals that hampers academic achievements and professional development for women. It also reveals a, patriarchal system and structures. The paper recommends that institutions should set gender goals, strategies and activities for gender mainstreaming in human capital development. Eliminating gender disparities in human capital development would help enhance the status and capabilities of women and inclusiveness for nation building.