Introduction

In an era saturated with information, the way we communicate and the stories media choose to tell profoundly shape perceptions of gender, perpetuate stereotypes, or, conversely, advance equality. Far too often, communication strategies and media representations are gender-blind or, worse, reinforce harmful norms, limiting progress towards gender justice. From subtle linguistic biases to the perpetuation of stereotypes in advertising and news reporting, unconscious and conscious biases in communication can undermine even well-intentioned development efforts and reinforce discrimination. Adopting a gender-sensitive approach in communication and media is therefore crucial for challenging stereotypes, promoting positive role models, fostering inclusive dialogue, and ensuring that messages resonate equitably across diverse audiences to drive social change. This essential training course focuses on Gender-Sensitive Communication and Media, equipping participants to become powerful advocates for gender equality through their communication efforts.

This intensive training course is meticulously designed to equip communication professionals, media practitioners, public relations specialists, marketing professionals, development communicators, and civil society advocates with the theoretical understanding and practical tools necessary to develop and implement gender-sensitive communication and media strategies. Participants will gain a deep understanding of how gender is constructed and portrayed in media, learn to identify and challenge biases, and explore innovative approaches to create empowering and inclusive narratives. The course will delve into topics such as gender-inclusive language, ethical reporting on gender issues, challenging stereotypes in advertising, digital communication for gender equality, and engaging men and boys in gender-sensitive messaging. By mastering the principles and methodologies of Gender-Sensitive Communication and Media, participants will be empowered to reshape public discourse, advocate for social change, and contribute to a more equitable and informed society.

Duration: 5 Days

Target Audience

• Communication and Public Relations Professionals
• Journalists and Media Practitioners (Reporters, Editors, Producers)
• Marketing and Advertising Specialists
• Development Communicators and Advocacy Officers
• Social Media Managers and Digital Strategists
• Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and NGO Staff
• Government Information Officers
• Educators and Trainers in Communication and Media Studies
• Human Rights and Gender Equality Advocates
• Corporate Communications Teams

Course Objectives

• Understand the power of communication and media in shaping gender norms and perceptions.
• Identify and analyze gender stereotypes and biases in various forms of media and communication.
• Learn to apply gender-inclusive language and imagery in all communication materials.
• Develop strategies for ethical and responsible reporting on gender issues, including gender-based violence.
• Acquire skills in designing and implementing gender-sensitive communication campaigns.
• Comprehend the role of digital media and social platforms in advancing or hindering gender equality.
• Explore approaches for engaging men and boys in gender-sensitive communication.
• Understand how to monitor and evaluate the gender impact of communication initiatives.
• Examine global best practices and successful case studies of gender-sensitive communication.
• Develop a practical action plan for integrating gender-sensitive principles into their communication work.
• Enhance critical media literacy skills related to gender representation.

Course Content

Module 1: The Power of Communication and Gender

• Defining communication, media, and their influence on gender norms.
• How gender is socially constructed through language and visuals.
• Understanding stereotypes, biases, and their impact on individuals and society.
• The role of media in reinforcing or challenging gender inequalities.
• Introduction to gender mainstreaming in communication.

Module 2: Gender Analysis of Media and Communication Content

• Methodologies for analyzing gender representation in news, entertainment, and advertising.
• Identifying overt and subtle forms of gender bias (e.g., tokenism, hyper-sexualization).
• Analyzing the absence and misrepresentation of diverse gender identities.
• Critically evaluating visual imagery and its gendered messages.
• Practical exercises in media content analysis.

Module 3: Gender-Inclusive Language and Terminology

• Principles of gender-neutral and gender-inclusive language.
• Avoiding sexist language and gendered assumptions in writing and speaking.
• Using appropriate terminology for LGBTQIA+ individuals and diverse gender identities.
• Guidelines for inclusive language in official documents, reports, and public statements.
• Practical exercises in drafting gender-inclusive texts.

Module 4: Ethical and Responsible Reporting on Gender Issues

• Guidelines for reporting on gender-based violence (GBV) with a survivor-centered approach.
• Avoiding victim-blaming and sensationalism in GBV reporting.
• Ethical considerations in portraying gender-related challenges and successes.
• Balancing individual stories with systemic issues.
• The role of media in promoting gender justice and human rights.

Module 5: Designing Gender-Sensitive Communication Campaigns

• Developing communication objectives with a gender lens.
• Identifying target audiences and tailoring messages for diverse gender groups.
• Crafting compelling narratives that challenge stereotypes and promote positive change.
• Utilizing appropriate communication channels and platforms.
• Integrating gender into branding, messaging, and visual design.

Module 6: Digital Communication and Social Media for Gender Equality

• The opportunities and challenges of digital platforms for gender equality.
• Leveraging social media for advocacy and awareness on gender issues.
• Addressing online gender-based violence, harassment, and misinformation.
• Digital safety and privacy for gender equality advocates.
• Building inclusive online communities and movements.

Module 7: Engaging Men and Boys in Gender-Sensitive Communication

• The importance of engaging men and boys as allies in gender equality.
• Strategies for developing messages that resonate with male audiences.
• Challenging harmful masculinities and promoting positive male role models.
• Avoiding "man-bashing" and fostering collaborative dialogue.
• Campaigns focused on men's roles in preventing GBV and promoting care.

Module 8: Gender in Marketing and Advertising

• Analyzing gender stereotypes in advertising and their impact on consumer behavior.
• Developing gender-responsive and stereotype-breaking advertising campaigns.
• Promoting diverse representations of gender in marketing materials.
• Ethical considerations in advertising to children and young people regarding gender.
• Consumer advocacy and industry self-regulation for gender-equitable advertising.

Module 9: Monitoring, Evaluation, and Advocacy for Gender-Sensitive Media

• Developing indicators for measuring the gender impact of communication initiatives.
• Tools for monitoring media representation of gender.
• Advocating for gender equality in media policies and practices.
• Strengthening collaboration between media organizations, civil society, and regulators.
• Building alliances for a more gender-equitable media landscape.

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Skills for Africa Training Institute Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Skills for Africa Training Institute certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Terms of Payment: Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 7 working days before commencement of the training