The Impact of Covid-19 Outbreak based on Gender Perspective in Higher Education in Indonesia

Abstract

This study aimed to examine the gendered aspect of academic job transition, during which the Covid-19 pandemic has accelerated. This study performed 29 interviews with Indonesian academics between October 2020 and February 2021. Zoom data were analyzed using interpretive phenomenological analysis with semi-structured interviews. Consequently, a widespread and long-lasting pandemic developed, affecting academia and reinforcing the establishment of new gender disparities. Additionally, this study elucidates two points: First, invisible academic labor is predominantly carried out by women. This unrecognized and undervalued activity adds to the institutionalization of gendered work organizations. The second factor is health. Women are particularly vulnerable to Covid-19 because they are heavily involved in the care economy. From a social perspective, women are more likely to face the double burden of balancing their productivity and household responsibilities owing to the rules governing working from home.