March 14th, 1902
The Irish Association of Women Graduates and Candidate-Graduates, known today as the Irish Federation of University Women (IFUW), was established to promote higher education for women, advocate for women’s rights, and provide a network of support among female graduates in Ireland. While the exact date of the organization’s launch isn’t specified here, its foundations trace back to the early 20th century, a period marked by significant movements for women’s rights and education globally.
The association was part of a broader international movement to recognize and enhance women’s roles in academic and professional fields, responding to the historical exclusion of women from higher education and many professional careers. It aimed to support women’s academic pursuits, advocate for gender equality in education and the workplace, and facilitate professional and intellectual exchanges among women graduates.
Activities and initiatives of the association have typically included scholarships for female students, conferences and seminars on issues relevant to women in academia and beyond, networking events to connect women from various disciplines, and advocacy work to influence policy related to women’s education and employment rights.
As part of the International Federation of University Women (IFUW), the Irish association connects with a global network advocating for women’s rights, education, and leadership. Over the years, the organization has played a significant role in advancing the status of women in Ireland, promoting educational opportunities, and contributing to societal change towards greater gender equality.
The launch and ongoing work of the Irish Association of Women Graduates and Candidate-Graduates represent an important chapter in the history of women’s education and empowerment in Ireland, reflecting broader trends in the fight for gender equality worldwide.
