Skype exchange on Gender Inequality with peers in Vietnam for class 8A

“Achieving gender equality requires the engagement of women and men, girls and boys. It is everyone’s responsibility.” - Ban Ki-Moon

On 29 December 2021, the students of class 8A along with their class teacher Ms Srishti participated in a virtual discussion with Mr Ha Quang Nam, an educator from Tanh Son High School, Viet Tri, North Vietnam.[1] [2]  The topic of the session was ‘Gender Inequality”.

The students discussed how men have been the dominant gender while women were the minority in olden times. It was mostly because men earned the money and women looked after the home and children. Similarly, they didn’t have any rights. However, as time passed by, things started changing. Nonetheless, they are far from perfect. Gender inequality remains a serious issue in today’s time.

Students shared their views on how gender inequality refers to the unequal and biased treatment of individuals on the basis of gender. This inequality happens because of socially constructed gender roles. It happens when an individual of a specific gender is given different or disadvantageous treatment in comparison to a person of the other gender in the same circumstance.

It was an enriching experience for the students as they got to compare the condition of women in Vietnam and in India. The students asked questions like “Do you think men are better leaders than men? “Are men traditional decision-makers and breadwinners in India?” Do you think women are more hard-working than men?"

Students also exchanged questions regarding the economic, social and educational challenges and achievements of the women in their respective countries. A healthy exchange of their views on how they can overcome gender inequality in their countries made the session interesting.

The students got a precious opportunity to participate in this exchange and to explore a different culture. The session concluded with a promise to meet again.sc