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Breaking Barriers

Education is often considered the foundation of equality and empowerment, yet gender bias remains deeply rooted in classrooms and campuses worldwide. From early childhood education to higher learning institutions, girls and young women continue to face subtle and overt discrimination that limits their access, participation, and performance.




Global and Indian Statistics

Global Scenario:

  • UNESCO reports that 129 million girls worldwide are out of school — 32 million of primary school age, 30 million of lower-secondary school age, and 67 million of upper-secondary school age.

  • In STEM higher education, women represent less than 30% of students globally, despite achieving better academic outcomes in many regions.

🇮🇳 Indian Context:

  • According to the Annual Status of Education Report (ASER) 2022, 13.5% of girls aged 15–16 in rural India were not enrolled in school, compared to 7.9% of boys.

  • Girls face greater dropout rates after Class 10 due to child marriage, household responsibilities, and cultural norms.

  • The All India Survey on Higher Education (AISHE) 2020-21 shows women make up 49% of total enrollment, but only 28% in engineering and 24% in technical fields.

Drawbacks of Gender Bias in Education

  1. Stereotypical Curriculum: Textbooks often reinforce gender roles by portraying men as leaders and women in domestic settings.

  2. Unequal Teacher Expectations: Teachers may unconsciously call on boys more often or encourage them in math and science, while girls are praised for behavior and diligence.

  3. Lack of Facilities: In many rural schools, absence of safe toilets and menstrual hygiene management forces girls to skip or drop out of school.

  4. Harassment on Campus: Sexual harassment in educational institutions leads to fear, anxiety, and dropout among female students.

  5. Limited Role Models: A shortage of female faculty and leaders can discourage girls from pursuing academic leadership roles or careers in male-dominated fields.

Solutions and Way Forward

  1. Gender-Sensitive Training for Teachers: Equip educators to identify and address unconscious bias in classroom practices and language.

  2. Curriculum Reform: Revise textbooks to include diverse and empowering portrayals of women in leadership, science, sports, and entrepreneurship.

  3. Infrastructure Improvements: Ensure girls have access to safe schools, separate toilets, and menstrual hygiene resources.

  4. Encouraging Girls in STEM: Launch national campaigns and scholarships targeting girls for STEM and higher education participation.

  5. Reporting & Redressal Mechanisms: Strengthen Internal Complaints Committees (ICC) under UGC guidelines to handle cases of gender-based discrimination and harassment.

Helpline Numbers and Resources

India-Specific:

  • CBSE Helpline (Student Counseling): 1800-11-8004

  • National Commission for Women (NCW): 7827-170-170

  • Childline India (for girls under 18): 1098 (24/7 toll-free)

  • UGC Women Helpline for Colleges/Universities: 1800-111-656

International:

Conclusion

Gender bias in education stifles dreams, deepens inequality, and deprives communities of untapped talent. While India and the world have made progress in closing gender gaps, we must move beyond enrollment numbers and ensure that every child — regardless of gender — receives an equitable, empowering, and respectful education. It’s time to create classrooms where girls don’t just attend — they thrive, lead, and excel.

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