Gender, Equity and Inclusion in Education

Abstract Equity and inclusion in education are core values of the right to quality education for all, irrespective of gender, social origin or personal identity. As communities seek to develop educational institutions that offer access to and encourage full participation from heterogeneous student populations, the dimension of gender assumes critical significance. This chapter proposes that equity and inclusion in education should be based on a differentiated and sensitive treatment of gender as a determinant in shaping education. It also discusses how gender differences have been historically embedded and systematically reinforced and argues for the need to address a gender dimension in the system of education. Distinguished by its intersectional approach, this dialogue acknowledges how multiple identities, such as race, class, ability, etc., combine with gender to shape a student’s experiences and opportunities within schools. Crucial strategies towards the promotion of gender equity are discussed, including inclusive pedagogies, the importance of women in educational leadership and the role of community in shaping policy. The chapter concludes that gender equity in education is important to improve student outcomes at both the individual and the societal level. And by focusing on gender inclusion, the authors can ensure that more learners are equipped to succeed in a world that is becoming both increasingly diverse and more interconnected. The implications contributed by this chapter should encourage educational stakeholders, policymakers and other representatives to work together on improvement programmes that emphasise quality and inclusive practice in the educational system.