The Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC), Sociology Economics Forum, and Women's Cell collaboratively organized a Gender Sensitization Workshop on the topic "Gender Parity and Gender Equality" on November 23, 2023. The event was held in the Seminar Hall of the college, specifically for the final year BA and BSW students. The session featured Prof. Eveleen Benis, Head of the PG Department of Social Work, as the esteemed resource person.
The program commenced with an introduction by Nuha Rukiya, a Final Year BA student, who warmly welcomed Prof. Benis and highlighted her accomplishments and contributions to the field of social work.
Prof. Benis initiated her session by engaging the students in a thought-provoking discussion on their personal experiences with gender disparity. She used relatable everyday examples to simplify complex concepts, emphasizing that gender parity and equality are essential for creating a just and thriving society.
Workplace Equality: Prof. Benis illustrated the importance of workplace equality by asking the students to imagine a scenario where both a woman and a man with identical qualifications apply for the same job. She highlighted that, ideally, they should have an equal chance of being hired. However, due to unconscious biases and outdated stereotypes, women are often overlooked. She stressed that achieving gender parity involves ensuring fair and transparent hiring processes, allowing both men and women to rise to leadership positions based on merit.
Household Responsibilities: Addressing household dynamics, Prof. Benis pointed out that, in many households, women disproportionately shoulder domestic chores and childcare responsibilities, even when both partners work full-time. She advocated for gender equality by promoting the sharing of household responsibilities. For instance, a father taking paternity leave sets a powerful example, demonstrating that caregiving is a shared family responsibility, not just a woman's duty.
Education, Media Representation, Sports, and Policy Making: Prof. Benis discussed the disparities in education, media representation, sports, and policy-making, where women often lag behind men in representation and recognition. She emphasized the need for equal encouragement and resources for all genders in educational fields, diverse and non-stereotypical portrayals in media, equal support for female athletes, and comprehensive policies that reflect the needs of all citizens.
In conclusion, Prof. Benis underscored that gender parity and gender equality are not merely abstract ideals but achievable goals that begin with everyday actions and attitudes. She urged everyone to challenge stereotypes, share responsibilities, and advocate for fair policies. By doing so, we can create a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, regardless of gender. She called upon the audience to commit to making gender equality a reality in their homes, workplaces, schools, and communities, thus building a future where everyone is valued and empowered.
The workshop concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks delivered by Ms. Greeshma, a final year BA student. The event was graced by the presence of the IQAC coordinator, Ms. Cecilia Farida Goveas, and the coordinator of the Sociology Economics Forum, Dr. Kiran Prasad B. A total of 74 students from the final year BA and BSW courses actively participated in the workshop, making it a resounding success.
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