Gender Sensitization of Men

Summary

Innovation: To ensure the participation of men in promoting Girls' Rights

Duration Three times in a year

Location: Senapati, Manipur

Key Stakeholders: Deputy Commissioner, All Government Departments, Supervisors of Child Development Programme Officers (CDPO), Anganwadi Workers, Male Village Council Leaders.

Brief Description

In Senapati District, society follows a patriarchal system. Village council leaders were sensitized and trained to come on board with the ideas behind Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP).The disparity between girls and boys, and in particular, the grave issue of a declining Child Sex Ratio were highlighted and participants were encouraged to deliberate and discuss challenges like the birth and education of girls. Initially, an invitation to participate in a one-day sensitization programme was given to all village council leaders with the support of Anganwadi Workers. During the programme, the following topics were discussed:

1. A Brief Note on the Objectives of Beti Bachao Beti Padhao
2. Women’s Empowerment and Gender Equality
3. The Importance of Early Ante-Natal Care and Institutional Delivery
4. The Importance of the Girl Child’s Education

On the day of the programme, leaflets/brochures on BBBP were distributed to all the participants. In order to ensure that all the villages in the District were covered, the programme adopted project-wise approach and till now, three projects have been completed.

Factors Contributing to Success

The key driver behind the success of this programme is the active support of the staff of the Anganwadi services (ICDS), especially the Anganwadi Workers and community members.

Outcome, Benefits & Impact

Approximate 170 village Council male leaders have been sensitized towards the objectives of BBBP, which an important outcome of this unique intervention.

Challenges and Future Prospects

Men, an important stakeholder in BBBP, have shown interest, though a majority of men are yet to come forward – training and sensitization is required for all men and boys (as well) in the District. The Administration aspires to include male as a stakeholder and scale up its initiative across the District.

Source: Innovations under Beti Bachao Beti Padhao