Media Release

Mangaluru, Nov23: St Aloysius BEd College, a leading institute of teacher education in the city organised a national level webinar on the topic, ‘Understanding and Challenging Patriarchy and Sexism in Classroom’.

Speaking on the occasion, resource person, Kamla Bhasin, feminist and social activist, Delhi, said, “Gender difference is only for the purpose of procreation. Gender roles are assigned by family and society, thus we are gendered human beings. It means we are half-human beings. The term ‘Gender’ puts in two extremes, namely, it gives power to men and it takes away power from women.

Education also follows a gender stereotype route. A classroom is a space for learning different subjects. Students, apart from their subjects learn about feminine and masculine roles which are not fixed to any syllabus. It is a socially constructed practice which becomes stronger in schools and colleges. Textbooks occupy a central place in classrooms. They must not project women’s contributions merely limited to cooking, cleaning, and caring for their family members. They must be written more inclusively and sensitively, highlighting their participation in movements and forming institutions. Gender stereotyping starts when a teacher assigns works to boys and girls distinctly, like, moving furniture for boys and sweeping for girls in the school. Showing that a male is physically stronger than a female develops a sense of superiority and inferiority between the two sexes. Gender-related challenges in the education system are hindrances for the development of the full potential of students, especially girls. Gender equality is impossible if parents and teachers have an attitude of discrimination towards boys and girls. The classroom should be an environment that promotes gender neutrality. Women must be given opportunities in the public domain, like being vice-chancellors of universities, educational entrepreneurs, policymakers and employers.

The session began after the opening remarks and welcome by Dr Farita Viegas, principal and introduction of the resource person by Sarika Rodrigues, the convenor of the webinar. Sandhya, the moderator, facilitated interaction between the participants and the resource person. Delna Lobo, the vice-principal, delivered the vote of thanks. Prathvi B, student of first year BEd anchored the session. Lizalle Aranha, provided technical assistance.