Integrating Gender Equality Perspectives into Urdu Subject Textbooks at Secondary School Level

Abstract

Education is crucial in developing learners' comprehension of society, relationships, responsibilities, and social values. In secondary schools, textbooks hold great importance as students are forming their identities, ambitions, and perceptions of social roles. Gender equality in education involves more than just ensuring that both boys and girls have equal access to schools. It also necessitates focus on what students face in the curriculum and textbooks. Global evidence shows that textbooks in various settings still tend to under-represent women or depict them in traditional and stereotypical roles. UNESCO has stressed that curricula and textbooks need to be devoid of gender bias and should encourage equality in gender relationships. This study explores the significance of incorporating gender equality viewpoints into Urdu textbooks at the secondary level. It examines the ideas of gender, gender equality, gender representation, and gender stereotypes; clarifies the connection between language education and gender socialization; highlights key aspects in which gender equality can be illustrated in Urdu textbooks; and addresses difficulties and approaches for creating gender-sensitive Urdu educational resources.