Gender Equity in Education

Abstract

Gender equity in education refers to boys and girls experiencing the same advantages or disadvantages in attending school. Boys and girls should receive equal treatment and should not be discriminated against based on gender. Education is considered as one the most effective instrument for achieving gender equity and sustainable development. The key for the future of any country and any educational institution is the capability to develop, retain and attract the best talent. Boys and girls are equally talented and must be treated equally particularly in Education. The present study is seriously focusing on the equal participation of girls and boys in various aspects of society particularly in educational system. Gender is the most pervasive form of inequality, as it operates across all classes, castes and communities. According to the census of India, (2011) there are 914 girls for every 1000 boys in the 0-6 age group in India. In rural areas it is 919 girls for every 1000 boys, whereas 902 girls for every 1000 boys in urban areas. This ratio should be above 950. Female literacy rate in India is lower than the male literacy rate. Many families, especially in rural areas believe that having a male child is better than having a baby girl. So the male child gets all the benefits. Today, the female literacy levels according to the Literacy Rate 2011 census are 65.46% where the male literacy rate is over 80%. The numbers of girls’ children who do not get education especially in the rural areas are still high. Gender-based discrimination in education is both a cause and a consequence of deep-rooted disparities in society. Poverty, geographical isolation, ethnic background, disability; traditional attitudes about their status and role all undermine the ability of women and girls to exercise their rights.  Hopefully Education will be a gateway to achieve Gender equity.