A Gender Champions Initiative on Identifying Students’ Issues and Challenges on Campus

KISS-DU organized an orientation programme at the Boys’ Hostel as part of the Gender Champions initiative to promote gender equality, mutual respect, and responsible citizenship among students. The programme, titled “Identifying Students’ Issues and Challenges on Campus,” provided students with a platform to openly share concerns related to academic, social, psychological, and hostel life. Conducted in an open and supportive environment, the session encouraged meaningful dialogue on equality, safety, consent, non-violence, and inclusive campus living.

Objectives of the Programme

The programme aimed to raise awareness about gender equality, encourage respectful behaviour in daily life, promote responsible and positive masculinity, discuss healthy gender roles at home and in society, and sensitize students to issues of safety, consent, and non-violence. It also helped students understand their role in building a just, inclusive, and student-friendly campus environment.

Discussion Points Covered

  1. Understanding Gender Equality: Emphasizing equality, fairness, and mutual respect for all genders.
  2. Respect in Daily Life: Highlighting respectful behaviour towards peers, teachers, and staff.
    3. Education and Equal Opportunities: Discussing the importance of equal access to education and growth opportunities.
  3. Gender Roles at Home and in Society: Challenging stereotypes and encouraging shared responsibilities.
  4. Healthy Masculinity: Promoting emotional expression, empathy, and non-aggressive behaviour.
  5. Violence, Safety, and Consent: Creating awareness about consent, personal boundaries, and non-violence.
    7. Role as an Individual: Encouraging students to take responsibility for their actions and influence others positively.

Students’ Response

The response from the students was highly encouraging. The boys actively participated in the discussion, shared their viewpoints, and asked thoughtful questions. Many students expressed their willingness to practise gender equality in their daily lives, both inside and outside the hostel. The session helped students reflect on their attitudes and behaviours and highlighted the importance of empathy, responsibility, and respect in everyday interactions.

Photographs from the Interaction Session

Conclusion

The orientation programme at the Boys’ Hostel was a valuable and impactful initiative. By encouraging open dialogue, the session helped students reflect critically on gender equality, respect, safety, and inclusive living. Such regular interactions are essential for nurturing empathy, responsibility, and positive values among students, thereby contributing to a safer and more equitable campus environment.