taking actiOn On gEnDER: kEy cOncEpts

This section explores how schools can begin to map gender-responsive dropout prevention plans. The first step is getting to grips with key concepts that can be used to shape thoughtful gender policy and programming.

“Equal treatment of learners of all genders must be modelled by teaching staff and School Management Teams (SMTs). Boys can also sweep floors and sing soprano in the choir. Girls can play soccer and can wear grey pants and a tie. Equal treatment must be integrated in playgrounds during break times, in queues for school nutrition, and during teaching and learning times. However, schools must also have [gender-targeted] resources such as sanitary towels and sickbays that will support girls during pregnancy and during their monthly periods. Teachers and learners need to adopt a zero tolerance for stigmatising attitudes towards girls who are pregnant in school.”

nOmFunDisO RaFuZa Education Programme Officer with Masibumbane Development Organisation

Gender parity vs Gender equity

in the context of schooling, gender parity is about balancing the number of boys and girls who enrol, progress and ultimately complete their schooling.

gender equity is not just about gender parity, nor does it mean treating all genders the same. Instead, gender equity is about understanding the inequalities and differences among learners of diverse genders and how these might affect their needs and experiences at school. For example: menstruating learners may miss school during their periods; boys may be more drawn to joining gangs; and pregnant learners may miss school because of a sense of shame. Promoting gender equity in schools means giving learners of all genders the specific tools and support they need to thrive.

Gender-sensitive vs Gender-responsive

a gender-sensitive approach shows awareness of gender roles, expectations, inequalities and relationships.

a gender-responsive approach goes beyond this, not only paying attention to the ways that needs and experiences are gendered, but also taking measures to reduce the harmful effects of gender norms by promoting gender equity.

Gender-tarGeted vs Gender-inteGrated

a gender-targeted approach targets the specific, gendered needs of boys, girls, non-binary or gender diverse learners. This may include gendered quotas for enrolment and attainment, support services for pregnant learners, or a non-gendered uniform policy.

a gender-integrated approach integrates gender considerations into every aspect of how schooling is planned, implemented and evaluated. This may include ensuring that textbooks promote gender equity or that teachers model non-violent behaviour.