Government Degree College, Cheepurupalli

Gender Sensitivity

Best Practice on Gender Sensitivity

Practice Year: 2023-24
Name of the Institution: Government Degree College, Cheepurupalli
Conducted by: Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC)
Title of the Practice: Gender Sensitivity

Objectives of the Practice

Promoting gender sensitivity is essential in fostering an inclusive, respectful, and safe environment for all students. This best practice aims to:

Encourage gender equality and inclusivity within the college campus.
Educate students and faculty on gender-related issues and rights.
Address gender-based discrimination and create a supportive environment.
Empower students, particularly women, through awareness and skill-building activities.
Promote sensitivity toward gender diversity and create a zero-tolerance policy for harassment.

The Context

Gender biases and discrimination continue to exist in various forms, affecting educational and professional opportunities. The IQAC at Government Degree College, Cheepurupalli has identified the need to:

Create awareness about gender roles, stereotypes, and biases.
Conduct sensitization programs to educate students and staff on gender-related challenges.
Ensure a safe and supportive campus environment for all genders.
Address issues of gender-based violence and discrimination through counseling and legal awareness.
Promote women empowerment initiatives and leadership opportunities.

The Practice

The college has implemented gender sensitivity initiatives through various activities:

Organizing workshops, seminars, and guest lectures on gender equality and women's rights.
Conducting self-defense training programs for female students.
Establishing a Women’s Grievance Cell and Anti-Sexual Harassment Committee.
Encouraging students to participate in debates, discussions, and campaigns on gender issues.
Incorporating gender studies and gender sensitivity discussions into the curriculum.
Promoting leadership roles for female students in academic and extracurricular activities.
Celebrating International Women’s Day and other gender-related observances.

Evidence of Success

The Gender Sensitivity program has led to significant positive changes at Government Degree College, Cheepurupalli:

Increased awareness among students and faculty on gender-related issues.
Improved confidence and participation of female students in various activities.
Reduction in gender-based discrimination and harassment cases.
Strengthened support systems, including counseling and legal awareness programs.
Enhanced inclusivity and equality in academic and administrative decision-making.

Problems Encountered and Resources Required

Despite its success, the program faced some challenges:

Resistance from a few students and staff due to societal and cultural influences.
Need for more resource persons and experts to conduct awareness programs.
Limited funding for large-scale gender sensitivity campaigns and training programs.

To overcome these challenges, Government Degree College, Cheepurupalli has: