Gender Disparities in Education and the Empowering Role of Gender-Responsive Pedagogy Training: Kotebe University of Education in Focus

Abstract

The aim of this study is to explore gender inequalities and to assess the significance of giving training on gender responsive pedagogy. The study was qualitative and it used document analysis and focus group discussions (FGDs). Five teachers and five students attending the training sessions took part in the FGDs. The study found out that sexual violence within schools, including by teachers, is a problem for girls. Girls also encountered sexual harassment on the way to school that is often not taken seriously. The finding indicated that burden of domestic labor inhibits girls‟ schooling. It was also reported that gender inequalities were often exacerbated by financial insecurity and the social norms drive gender inequalities as well. The document analysis also revealed that the university curricula do not routinely include gender issues. The training improved the pre-service teachers‟ understanding of gender inequality and empowered them to advocate for girls beyond the school compound. It was also noted that the training turned teachers into change agents for addressing gender inequality within and out of the schools.