The changing role of women over the years

The role of women up until the late 18th century was mainly restricted to household duties. The traditional roles of men and women were socially defined. Women were not allowed to own or inherit property; nor were they allowed to vote. Their roles, depending on their social status were largely to take care of the home, children and at best to be culturally adept at singing, playing instruments etc. The women from weaker sections of society were, in most cases, not even able to read or write.

However, the second world war was a major factor in changing the role of women in the years to come. The war required most countries to send their abled bodied men to war and this created a huge vacuum in the work force. Industrial revolution was picking up steam and the requirement for larger and larger workforces was the need of the hour. Men were either getting killed in battle or were on the front fighting. This created a space for women to step in as factory workers, drivers as well as for the war effort among other areas. Even after the war had ended, these changed gender roles never went back exactly to the way things were.

Women during WWII proved that they could do the so called “man’s work” and have never looked back since. Women had discovered independence and they were not willing to give it up easily, if ever. And while WWII created a major shift in Europe and the US, other developing countries had their own battle with the changing role of women. In some areas the west was ahead; while countries like India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Pakistan have always had women at the forefront of Politics unlike their Western counterparts.

Many women around the world have fought tough battles and paved the way for the opportunities that we as girls enjoy today. Women like Frida Kahlo (1907-1954) who used her art to express taboo subjects surrounding women, Ida B. Wells (1862-1931) was a founding member of the National Association for the Advancement of Coloured People (NAACP), Yuri Kochiyama (1921-2014) who fought a lifelong fight against racism.

While even today women are fighting to close the gender pay gap and many countries around the world need to support their women to get better opportunities, fact is that things are brighter than they have ever been. Some examples that give us hope are companies like Google, where 40% of employees are women; corporate leadership in the hands of women is at an all-time high with CEO’s like Indra Nooyi former chairperson and CEO of PepsiCo. , Whitney Wolfe Herd the founder and CEO of Bumble (online dating platform) , Sonia Syngal businesswomen who served as CEO of GAP (apparel company from the US)

The role of women is constantly changing and while many women still struggle with rules imposed on them by their families or society, more women today have the freedom to define their own role, than any other time in history.

Inayatt Gogia

First Published on https://shespires.org

Educational Inequality: Paving the Way for Gender Equality in Education

Educational inequality based on gender is a persistent challenge faced by societies around the world, including India. Despite significant progress in recent years, a substantial gender gap in access to education remains, hindering social development and perpetuating systemic discrimination.

Some data reveals the stark reality of educational disparities between genders in India. According to the National Sample Survey (2017-18), the literacy rate among males was recorded at around 81%, whereas for females, it stood at approximately 68%. This gap widens in rural areas, where gender-based educational inequities are more pronounced due to limited infrastructure, cultural norms, and socio-economic factors.

One example of educational inequality is the significant dropout rates among girls, particularly during the transition from primary to secondary education. Factors such as child marriage, household responsibilities, and the lack of safe transportation to schools contribute to this issue. Another example is the underrepresentation of females in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields, perpetuated by societal biases and stereotypes that discourage girls from pursuing these subjects.

Educational inequality has severe consequences for individuals and society as a whole. When girls are denied equal access to education, it limits their opportunities for personal growth, economic empowerment, and social participation. This perpetuates a cycle of gender discrimination and reinforces societal inequalities. Moreover, the overall progress and development of a nation are hindered when a significant portion of its population is excluded from the educational sphere.

Achieving equality of education is not only a matter of fundamental human rights but also an essential component of societal progress. Education is a catalyst for empowerment, social mobility, and economic growth. When girls receive quality education, they acquire knowledge, skills, and confidence to contribute meaningfully to their communities. Gender equality in education also fosters a more inclusive and equitable society by challenging gender stereotypes, promoting diversity, and nurturing future leaders.

To address educational inequality, concerted efforts from various stakeholders are required. Governments should prioritize the allocation of resources towards building inclusive educational infrastructure, especially in rural and marginalized areas. Policy initiatives that encourage girls' enrolment, reduce dropout rates, and ensure the safety and security of female students are crucial. Community engagement, awareness campaigns, and sensitization programs can challenge societal norms and promote the value of girls' education.

Students and young people have a vital role to play in reducing educational inequality. By raising awareness, advocating for change, and actively participating in initiatives, they can make a significant impact. Students can engage in community outreach programs, volunteer at different/local schools, and mentor younger students, especially girls, to inspire and encourage them to pursue education. They can also organize campaigns and events to highlight the importance of gender equality in education, promoting inclusivity and challenging societal norms. Additionally, utilizing social media platforms and digital tools, young people can amplify their voices, share educational resources, and mobilize support for equal access to education. Through their collective efforts, students and young people can drive positive change and contribute to creating a more equitable educational landscape.

Educational inequality based on gender poses significant challenges to societies, including India. It is imperative to recognize the importance of equality of education and take concrete steps to address this issue. By providing equal opportunities for males and females to access quality education, we can break the barriers that perpetuate gender disparities and foster a more inclusive, prosperous, and just society. Let us work collectively to ensure that every individual, regardless of their gender, has the right to learn, grow, and succeed. Only through the promotion of gender equality in education can we truly unlock the full potential of our nation and build a brighter future for all!

By Inayatt Gogia

First published on https://shespires.org