Introduction

Education holds immense power to shape perceptions, challenge norms, and foster a more equitable world. However, traditional education systems and curricula often inadvertently perpetuate gender stereotypes, biases, and inequalities, limiting the potential of learners and reinforcing harmful societal norms. Gender Transformative Education (GTE) moves beyond simply ensuring equal access; it actively equips students, teachers, and communities to critically examine, challenge, and ultimately change the root causes of gender inequality. By consciously integrating a gender lens into every aspect of the learning environment—from textbooks and teaching methods to school policies and community engagement—GTE can cultivate critical consciousness and empower individuals to become agents of social change, leading to more just and inclusive societies. This essential training course focuses on Gender Transformative Education and Curriculum Development, empowering participants to revolutionize learning environments for true gender equity.

This intensive training course is meticulously designed to equip educators, curriculum developers, policymakers, and development practitioners with the theoretical understanding and practical tools necessary to design and implement Gender Transformative Education and Curriculum Development. Participants will delve into the principles of GTE, learn to identify gender biases in existing educational materials, and explore strategies for creating inclusive and equitable learning environments. The course will cover topics such as feminist pedagogies, engaging boys and girls in challenging gender norms, addressing school-related gender-based violence (SRGBV), and advocating for systemic policy changes within education. By mastering the principles and methodologies of Gender Transformative Education and Curriculum Development, participants will be empowered to reshape educational landscapes, foster critical thinking about gender, and contribute to a world where every learner can reach their full potential, free from gender-based constraints.

Duration: 5 Days

Target Audience

• Educators (Teachers, School Administrators)
• Curriculum Developers and Textbook Authors
• Education Policy Makers and Ministry Officials
• Gender Equality Specialists in Education
• Civil Society Organizations working on Education and Gender
• Researchers in Education and Gender Studies
• Child Protection Specialists
• Youth Advocates
• Education Program Managers

Course Objectives

• Understand the core concepts and principles of Gender Transformative Education (GTE).
• Analyze how gender norms and stereotypes are perpetuated within education systems.
• Learn to conduct a gender audit of curriculum and educational materials.
• Develop skills in designing and adapting curricula to be gender transformative.
• Explore gender-responsive pedagogies and teaching methodologies.
• Acquire strategies for creating safe and inclusive learning environments free from SRGBV.
• Comprehend the role of engaging boys and men as allies in GTE.
• Identify opportunities for advocacy and policy reform for GTE.
• Examine best practices and case studies of successful GTE initiatives.
• Develop a practical action plan for integrating GTE into their professional context.
• Enhance critical thinking skills regarding gender power dynamics in education.

Course Content

Module 1: Introduction to Gender Transformative Education (GTE)

• Defining GTE: beyond access and gender sensitivity.
• The continuum of gender in education: gender-exploitative, gender-blind, gender-sensitive, gender-responsive, gender-transformative.
• Why GTE is essential for achieving gender equality and social justice.
• Key elements of a gender transformative education system.
• The role of education in reinforcing or challenging gender norms.

Module 2: Analyzing Gender in Education Systems

• Identifying gender biases in school policies, practices, and culture.
• Understanding gendered roles and power dynamics among teachers, students, and administrators.
• Analyzing educational data through a gender lens (enrollment, completion, subject choices, performance).
• The impact of school-related gender-based violence (SRGBV) on learning outcomes.
• Exploring the intersection of gender with other identities (disability, ethnicity, class) in education.

Module 3: Gender-Sensitive Curriculum Audit and Analysis

• Methodologies for reviewing existing curricula and textbooks for gender stereotypes.
• Identifying overt and hidden gender biases in content, language, and imagery.
• Analyzing representation of women, men, and diverse gender identities in learning materials.
• Examining gendered messaging in stories, examples, and historical narratives.
• Practical exercises in auditing curriculum components.

Module 4: Principles of Gender Transformative Curriculum Development

• Strategies for integrating gender equality themes across all subjects (STEM, humanities, arts).
• Developing curricula that challenge harmful gender norms and promote critical thinking.
• Including diverse gender roles, experiences, and contributions in learning content.
• Fostering empathetic understanding of gender-based discrimination and injustice.
• Creating inclusive and representative learning materials.

Module 5: Gender-Responsive Pedagogies and Teaching Practices

• Shifting from teacher-centered to learner-centered approaches with a gender lens.
• Strategies for creating inclusive classroom environments where all voices are heard.
• Addressing unconscious biases in teaching interactions and classroom management.
• Promoting critical discussions on gender, power, and equity in the classroom.
• Fostering respectful relationships among students and between students and teachers.

Module 6: Creating Safe and Inclusive School Environments

• Understanding school-related gender-based violence (SRGBV) and its forms.
• Developing comprehensive policies and protocols for preventing and responding to SRGBV.
• Promoting a culture of zero tolerance for violence and discrimination.
• Engaging students, parents, and community members in creating safe schools.
• Strengthening reporting mechanisms and survivor support within educational settings.

Module 7: Engaging Boys and Men in Gender Transformative Education

• The importance of engaging boys and men as allies for gender equality in education.
• Strategies for challenging harmful masculinities and promoting positive male engagement.
• Developing educational content that encourages boys to question gender stereotypes.
• Fostering empathy and respect towards girls and women among male students.
• Role modeling and mentorship programs for boys and young men.

Module 8: Community Engagement and Systemic Change

• Building partnerships with parents, community leaders, and civil society organizations for GTE.
• Advocating for gender-responsive education policies and legislation.
• Integrating GTE into teacher training and professional development programs.
• Promoting women's leadership in educational administration and governance.
• Monitoring and evaluating the impact of GTE initiatives at school and system levels.

Module 9: Innovation, Challenges, and Future of GTE

• Leveraging technology for gender transformative learning (e.g., e-learning, digital resources).
• Addressing resistance and backlash to GTE implementation.
• Sustaining GTE efforts in fragile and humanitarian contexts.
• Emerging trends in education and their implications for gender equality.
• Developing a personal commitment to lifelong learning and advocacy for GTE.

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