Gender equality matters: a precious “GEM” to tackle gender inequality through a whole-school community education programme

This study presents the outcomes of the GEM (Gender Equality Matters) — a whole-school community educational programme designed to address gender stereotyping, gender-based bullying, and gender-based violence (GBV) in primary schools. The programme was implemented in several European countries and evaluated specifically in the Irish primary school context (ages 10–13). Dublin City University+2doras.dcu.ie+2

Key findings:

• Students who participated reported a greater understanding of gender-equality related terminology and concepts. doras.dcu.ie+1

• Their confidence increased: both in situations where they themselves — or their peers — might experience or observe gender stereotyping, bullying or GBV. Dublin City University+1

• The research suggests that school-wide, community-based programmes like GEM can play a significant and lasting role in challenging gender norms, raising awareness, and fostering a safer, more equitable school culture. doras.dcu.ie+1

Overall, GEM demonstrates that integrating gender-equality education comprehensively — rather than as a one-off or add-on — can empower young learners, build inclusive attitudes, and contribute to long-term societal change. The authors argue for the need to expand such programmes, since legal or policy changes alone are not sufficient to shift everyday school dynamics. doras.dcu.ie+1

Reference:Gender equality matters: a precious “GEM” to tackle gender inequality through a whole-school community educational programme — S. Keating & C.R. Baker (2023) https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/epdf/10.1080/00131911.2023.2224939