In a groundbreaking move towards promoting gender equality in education, Delhi’s State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT) has introduced substantial revisions to school textbooks. This decision comes after a comprehensive gender audit of 53 textbooks and curricula revealed significant gender biases. The audit, conducted by a committee of experts from the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT), Delhi University, central education institutes, and NGOs, uncovered a concerning pattern of male-dominated content, women portrayed in submissive roles, and a complete lack of representation for transgender individuals.
The audit’s recommendations are aimed at creating a more inclusive learning environment. These include the adoption of gender-neutral language and illustrations, ensuring a balanced representation of male and female contributors, and eliminating stereotypes. Traditional depictions of women performing household chores have been updated to include men, while subjects like mathematics now feature gender-neutral examples. Notably, the revised home science curriculum depicts both men and women in professional roles, challenging conventional gender norms.
SCERT officials are clear that textbooks alone cannot change societal attitudes. They emphasize the need for gender sensitization through school activities. As a result, the curriculum now includes discussions on transgender individuals’ achievements, substance abuse, and ‘good touch versus bad touch’ to enhance student awareness.
To further combat gender stereotypes, the school will introduce a new approach to tasks traditionally assigned to female students. Activities like decoration will now be given to male students, encouraging them to challenge their own perceptions and promoting a more balanced understanding of gender roles.
This initiative aligns perfectly with the National Education Policy’s focus on gender equality and inclusive education. By implementing these changes, SCERT is taking a significant step towards fostering a more equitable learning environment and shaping students’ values and attitudes towards gender roles.
Here’s a list of 10 gender-insensitive terms commonly found in school textbooks, along with their neutral counterparts:
| Gender Biased Terms | Gender Neutral Terms |
|—|—|
| Chairman | Chairperson |
| Headmaster/Headmistress | Principal |
| Manpower | Workforce |
| Sportsman/Sportswoman | Athlete |
| Brotherhood | Community |
| Policeman | Police Officer |
| Businessman | Businessperson |
| Craftsman | Artisan |
| Housewife | Homemaker |
| Salesman | Salesperson |
