Effectiveness of the gender and development program in the promotion of gender equality

Aim: This study evaluated the effectiveness of the Gender and Development (GAD) Program in promoting gender equality at Gumaok Elementary School during the 2024-2025 school year, with emphasis on program implementation and its influence on stakeholders' awareness and perceptions of gender equality.Methodology: A descriptive-correlational research design was employed.Data were gathered using a researchermade survey questionnaire administered to 60 teachers and one school head.Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (mean and standard deviation) and inferential statistics, including Pearson's r correlation and oneway analysis of variance.Results: Findings revealed that the GAD Program was perceived as moderately effective in terms of implementation quality, budget utilization, and program coverage, with mean scores ranging from 3.38 to 3.65.Respondents demonstrated a moderate level of awareness of gender equality (M = 3.43).A strong and statistically significant positive relationship was found between GAD Program effectiveness and the promotion of gender equality (r = 0.694, p < 0.001).Significant differences in perceptions were observed when respondents were grouped according to position and duration of exposure to the GAD Program. Conclusion:The GAD Program at Gumaok Elementary School contributes positively to the promotion of gender equality by establishing a foundational level of awareness and fairness.Nonetheless, challenges related to stakeholder engagement, timeliness of fund utilization, and the translation of awareness into inclusive practices persist.The study recommends improved budget transparency, sustained and advanced capacity-building initiatives, and strengthened mechanisms for inclusive participation to further enhance program effectiveness.