Why India Needs Gender Transformative Education?

National Education Day in India is a day to commemorate the birth anniversary of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, our first Minister of Education. It's a day when we reflect upon the state of education in India, its challenges, and the ways ahead. In pursuit of its commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals, India has boldly established ambitious objectives, targeting inclusive, equitable, and quality education for all (SDG-4), Gender Equality, and the Empowerment of Women and Girls (SDG-5). However, the realization of these objectives hinges upon a profound transformation of the education system through a gender lens, ensuring that it becomes a more inclusive and equitable platform for individuals of all genders and social backgrounds.

In the 2023 annual Gender Gap Report, India has made notable progress, advancing by eight positions and now holds the 127th rank out of 146 countries in terms of gender parity, as compared to its 135th position in the previous year. However, while this improvement signifies closing 64.3% of the overall gender gap, there is limited cause for celebration.

According to the latest survey, the total student enrollment in higher education went up from 3.85 crore in 2019 to about 4.13 crore in 2020-21, an increase of nearly 29 lakh. Out of the total enrolled, 51.3% or 2.12 crore are male and 48.7% are women.         

This kind of glaring gender gap is primarily attributable to factors such as low perceived relevance of education, gender-based discrimination, harassment in public spaces, and the burden of unpaid domestic work on young girls. These data suggest that India has a long way to go to achieve gender equality. One of the crucial steps to take to achieve gender equality is the fundamental transformation of education.

Gender-Transformative Education

Education possesses remarkable transformative potential. However, the ability of education systems to realise true gender equality and equity, and fulfil it’s promise to all children remains largely untapped in every nation. Every individual is entitled to a quality education that is inclusive and equitable. However, for some, this fundamental right is impeded upon by arbitrary and discriminatory socially constructed gender norms and expectations. Above all, we are all human beings. A person's gender should never influence how they receive treatment or restrict their access to essential services. Their humanity should be enough to ensure their dignity, equal treatment, and the necessary social and economic support.

However, gender norms are extremely challenging to address because they are deep-rooted in every aspect of society. Indeed, education systems themselves can often reflect and perpetuate prevailing harmful gender norms and power relations in teaching practises, curricula, and textbooks. But the potential of education is incalculable. Some of the most important influences on children and young people are in educational spaces. Outside the home, schools play a central role in socialization and serve as platforms where young minds encounter role models. These institutions become the fertile ground where children explore the world, discover their interests, and realize their potential. Education can reinforce existing norms or challenge and transform them, not just for children, but for their parents, communities, and nations. After all, children go home after school and talk about what they learn.

Gender-Transformative Education goes beyond traditional gender equality efforts. It aims to empower students, teachers, communities, and policymakers to challenge harmful gender norms and power imbalances. This approach promotes an equitable and inclusive education system where everyone is treated equally, regardless of their gender. It encourages children and young people to question societal norms and fosters respect for diversity.

Gender-transformative education expands opportunities, leading to better health, increased social engagement, improved job prospects, and broader life choices. It's not limited to schools but extends to policies, administration, and communities, making it applicable in all contexts and for all children.

In a country as diverse as India, gender-transformative education is not just a necessity; it's an imperative for achieving true progress and equality. It's about fostering a society where every individual, regardless of their gender, is free to pursue their dreams and contribute to the nation's growth. On this National Education Day, let's reflect on the importance of gender-transformative education and work towards creating a future where every person has an equal opportunity to thrive and succeed. By embracing this form of education, India can truly harness its full potential and become a global leader in social equity and development.

Written by Muhsin J

Content & Communications Officer, VOICE-4