What effect would gender equitable education in developing countries have on our world? By: Danielle Homeres

“It is vain to say human beings ought to be satisfied with tranquillity: they must have action; and they will make it if they cannot find it. Millions are condemned to a stiller doom than mine, and millions are in silent revolt against their lot. Nobody knows how many rebellions besides political rebellions ferment in the masses of life which people earth. Women are supposed to be very calm generally: but women feel just as men feel; they need exercise for their faculties, and a field for their efforts, as much as their brothers do; they suffer from too rigid a restraint, to absolute a stagnation, precisely as men would suffer; and it is narrow- minded in their more privileged fellow-creatures to say that they ought to confine themselves to making puddings and knitting stockings, to playing on the piano and embroidering bags. It is thoughtless to condemn them or laugh at them, if they seek to do more or learn more than custom has pronounced necessary for their sex” -- Charlotte Brontë, Jane Eyre

Gender equality The lack of gender equality has been an issue to women for centuries. The role that women had in society were usually as ‘baby-makers’ and ‘housewives’. Males were thought of as the more dominant gender; that they were faster, stronger and smarter than women were. Only until recently was it recognised that women should not be limited to those two roles and be treated of lesser value compared to men. More jobs have become available to women that before only men could attain. Now women have a voice. However, this progression has not been made in some countries. Girls as young as nine are being sold off as wives or slaves to the highest bidder. That is why charity organisations have been put into place to assist in progression of gender equality in this countries. Charities such as UNICEF, Oxfam and the Girl Effect are examples of organisations fighting for gender equality.

UNICEF UNICEF has many projects assisting in the issue of gender equality. Such as their water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) programs which look into the struggle that women endure in developing countries (such as of those in Africa) in attaining water and the lack of gender separated toilets. They also support in allowing women to vote in countries such as Saudi Arabia as well as the prevention of child marriage in many African and Asian countries.

Oxfam OXFAM recognises that women play a key role in feeding the world. Their aim is to help women obtain the same amount of resources as males. However, this is easier said than done. Due to ingrained economic, legal and social discrimination women are not allowed the access to these resources.

The Girl Effect THE GIRL EFFECT is a movement that recognises the potential of girls being able to end poverty. They provide resources that can help girls to make this change not only for themselves but possibly the world as well.

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