Boys as strategic allies
The Girls' Education Movement (GEM) principle of "I am my sisters keeper" describes the value that is placed on the girl child through the GEM initiative. This however applies to boys as well. Boys and young men are vital to fulfilling the objectives of GEM through their partnership in establishing GEM clubs and supporting girls and young women in reducing their vulnerability to sexual exploitation, gender based violence and HIV infection, as well increasing their access to education and affirming their rights as valuable contributors to their school and communities. Without the strategic partnership of boys, girls would face an even tougher challenge in asserting their rights and negotiating and mobilizing in their communities for equal rights and in assisting other girls that are trapped by gender stereotyping and negative cultural practices. Especially important is creating creative ways to introduce boys and young men to the notion of 'positive masculinities' where conventional beliefs around masculinity is challenged to promote responsible and compassionate young men and boys that support gender equality and the rights of women in their society.
I was not there
This poem by a young boy from Limpopo, laments the gender inequalities of past times and asks that today, boys be included in the Girl’s Education Movement because, after all, they did not create the inequalities! The poem was written and performed by the student during the children’s parliament organised by UNICEF and the South African Girl Child Alliance to launch GEM in the province in 2002.
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