On 24-26 February, the All India Primary Teachers Federation (AIPTF) trained 32 Union leaders and teachers to identify and address gender stereotypes in and through education. AIPTF notes that lack of awareness among teachers, and the inadequacy of the teacher training and education they receive, may lead to discriminatory behaviours and actions in their classroom practise. In addition, teaching material reinforcing stereotypes are commonly used. These factors often inhibit students – particularly girls – from fully participating in the classroom, affect academic performance and, more crucially, act as critical determinants of whether girls continue to attend school and complete their education, or drop out.

8 union leaders and 24 teachers from Bihar, Rajasthan and Delhi National Capital Territory took part in the training, including the AIPTF President and the AIPTF General Secretary. The training was conducted as part of the Work: No Child’s Business programme jointly implemented by AIPTF and the NGOs MV Foundation, Save the Children India, ICCo India, Arisa, Manjari, ARAVALI, Fakirana Sisters Society and Nav Jagritti.