Communicating the Implementation of Gender and Development (GAD): A Classroom Setting Experience in Higher Education Institutions (HEIS)

Abstract

Schools most particularly the higher education institutions are influential agents of socialization. They play vital roles in how individuals make meaning of the world around others, significantly affecting how people perceive themselves and others, as well as differences across race, languages, disabilities, and gender. Because of this, schools have the responsibility to model, teach, and create conditions in which each child’s gender diversity is accepted and nourished. Thus, HEIs play a vital role in this context and increasingly realize their responsibility in the context of gender education. Gender equity remains a pressing issue around the world. Despite progress made in recent decades, women still face significant challenges in achieving equal opportunities and outcomes compared to men. Gender equity in education means that males and females have equal opportunities in terms of economic, social, cultural, and political developments. Gender education has been greatly considered as prime foundation for social, economic and national development (Philippines Millennium Development Goals (MDG), 2015). For instance, the global gender pay gap persists, with women on average earning less than men for the same work. Women are also underrepresented in leadership positions across various sectors. These inequalities can have far-reaching consequences, impacting everything from economic development to individual well-being. Understanding the root causes of gender inequity and exploring potential solutions is crucial to creating a more just and equitable society.