Pool of ‘Gender Champions’ asked to be created by UGC

In order to present an environment of equal opportunities and treatment in the educational institute, UGC has proposed to make a pool of ‘gender champions’ that would facilitate an atmosphere of dignity and respect among girls. This step is believed to bring the confidence in the girl student and allow them to go hand in hand with their male counterpart.

The proposal also has provision of creating ‘Gender Clubs’ and identify the gaps prevalent in school and college activities with respect to that of gender. Upon study these bodies would make recommendations on addressing the problems and methods to reduce certain gaps. All the vice chancellors of the country has been sent a communication regarding the same with request of implementing the guidelines provided by UGC in order to achieve “long term sustainable change” for students. 

The communication further stated, “Gender champions are envisaged as responsible leader who will facilitate an enabling environment within their schools, colleges, academic institutions, where girls are treated with dignity and respect. They will strengthen the potential of young girls and boys to advocate for gender equality and monitor progress towards gender justice.”

UGC has asked for an action taken report in regard of the communication and has urged all the universities to apply as directed on an urgent basis. It has pointed out clearly that, “This may be treated as most urgent and actions taken in this regard may be sent to UGC by August 31.”

Gender champions can be both boys and girls who are above 16 years of age in any educational institute. These champions would be popularizing phone numbers of services such as police helpline, women helpline, hospitals etc. to other students in case of their need at any point of time. The Gender Clubs would write blogs on gender equality and other social issues related to the lives of women and girls which would ignite the passion among students to do well in their respective lives.