HEAD of Curriculum Development and Basic Education Division at Zanzibar Institute of Education, Patima Kheri Koba, has underscored the vital role of teacher training on gender issues in transforming deep-rooted negative attitudes toward gender within the society.

Speaking here yesterday during a review meeting of the Gender Responsive Pedagogy (GRP) project implemented by the Forum for African Women Educationalists (FAWE) Zanzibar,  Koba stressed that empowering teachers with comprehensive knowledge and skills on gender equality is crucial to driving meaningful social change. 

“Teachers are pivotal agents in reshaping societal mindsets. The trainings will help them adopt a new perspective on gender roles and foster learning environments that promote equality,” she said. She added that teachers, as frontline educators, have a unique position to influence learners’ views and create inclusive classrooms where all children, regardless of gender, have equal opportunities to thrive.

Koba further emphasized that providing teachers with accurate and evidence-based gender education is essential to eliminating harmful stereotypes and misconceptions that have persisted for generations. “We must ensure that teachers receive the right education on gender issues so that they can support learning in environments that are fair and inclusive,” she said.

Echoing this sentiment, Daud Mohammed Ali, Coordinator of the Bububu Teacher Training Centre, called for intensified efforts to expand teacher training programs on gender equality. “Education remains the most powerful tool for social transformation and reducing gender inequality across various sectors,” he said. He noted that reaching more teachers with this training will multiply the impact, helping to foster a more equitable society.

During the event, Vicent Innocent,  Head of Police Gender and Children Desk in South Unguja, shared insights about his team’s efforts to visit schools and raise awareness about harassment prevention. “Our work aims to create safer school environments where children, especially girls, can learn without fear,” he said, underscoring the connection between safe spaces and effective learning.

Winnifred Yatuwa Mamawi, Director of FAWE Zanzibar, highlighted that the GRP project focuses on equipping teachers with participatory and gender-sensitive teaching methods. “This initiative not only improves how teachers engage with learners but also helps establish a strong foundation for inclusive education that benefits learners of all genders,” she said. The project aims to challenge traditional biases and encourage more equitable treatment of students.

The Gender Responsive Pedagogy initiative forms part of broader ongoing efforts to embed gender equality and inclusivity within Zanzibar’s education system. The efforts aim to ensure that all learners grow up in supportive environments free from discrimination, bias and stereotyping — essential steps toward a more just and equal society.

By targeting teachers as change agents, the project seeks long-term impact, gradually shifting societal attitudes and promoting gender equality beyond the classroom.