Gender Champions will be chosen from among students to lead initiatives to make campuses more inclusive and to disseminate gender awareness.
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The University Grants Commission (UGC) has requested that all universities and affiliated colleges nominate ‘Gender Champions’ from among students who will lead efforts to make campuses more inclusive and spread gender sensitization as soon as possible. In addition, the apex regulatory authority for higher education in India has requested that schools complete the online compliance details.
In a letter to Vice-Chancellors and College Principals, UGC Secretary Rajnish Jain wrote, “To improve the outreach for establishing an environment that supports fair treatment, the government envisions Gender Champions in all educational institutions. Across the country as accountable leaders.” Gender Champions can be boys and girls over the age of 16 who are enrolled in school and who will help create an enabling atmosphere in their schools, colleges, and academic institutions where girls are treated with dignity and respect, he said.
“In the best interest of students, you are once again requested to ensure quick implementation of the ‘Guidelines for Gender Champions in Educational Institutions’ in your university and affiliated institutions to achieve long-term sustainable change,” he added.
According to the statement, the Ministry of Women and Child Development has created a Gender Champion badge, which is available on its website and the MyGov portal.
Gender Champions must incorporate gender equality through group discussions, poster competitions, and debates, identify and address gender disparities in the classrooms and organize awareness activities such as workshops and films, according to the rules.
They are also expected to popularize women’s helpline numbers, police, and medical helplines throughout institutions, as well as organize gender equality awareness tours to villages, blocks, districts, and towns. The UGC published the guidelines for the first time in 2015.
