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INSTITUTE OF GRADUATE STUDIES

AND RESEARCH
MANUEL S. ENVERGA UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION
Granted Autonomous Status
CHED CEB Res. 076-2009

EDUC 310 - DEVELOPMENT OF EDUCATION


Synchronous Module 6
Title of the Module Gender and Development

Module Objective/s The module aims to:


* Learning Objective 1: Discuss the interrelationship of gender
and development.
* Learning Objective 2: Present the different gender issues that
undermine development.
Learning Outcome/s After successful completion of this module, student should have
the ability to:
* Learning Outcome 1: appreciate the current gender issues that
are equated with development.
* Learning Outcome 2: appreciate the successes and
challenges of women empowerment
Structure Gender and Development
• Concept of Development
• Gender Issues and Development
• National Policies for Gender Equity in RP
• Successes and Challenges of Women Empowerment
Exercises/Activities Lecture-Discussion re: the topics
Individual Reporting of the topics

Assessment Oral and Written Individual Report Output including audiovisual


materials presented
Active participation during group sharing

Time needed to 45 minutes


complete
INSTITUTE OF GRADUATE STUDIES
AND RESEARCH
MANUEL S. ENVERGA UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION
Granted Autonomous Status
CHED CEB Res. 076-2009

Title of the Module: Gender and Development

Module Objective/s:

Learning Objective 1: Discuss the interrelationship of gender and development.

This objective focuses on understanding how gender is intertwined with the

broader concept of development.

Learning Objective 2: Present the different gender issues that undermine development.

This objective seeks to address the various gender-related challenges and

disparities that hinder the development process.

Learning Outcome/s:

Learning Outcome 1: Appreciate the current gender issues that are equated with

development.

This outcome aims for students to develop an understanding of the current gender

issues within the context of development, emphasizing their significance.

Learning Outcome 2: Appreciate the successes and challenges of women empowerment.

This outcome encourages students to recognize both the achievements and

obstacles faced in the realm of women's empowerment, which is a crucial aspect of

gender and development.


INSTITUTE OF GRADUATE STUDIES
AND RESEARCH
MANUEL S. ENVERGA UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION
Granted Autonomous Status
CHED CEB Res. 076-2009

CONCEPT OF DEVELOPMENT

Structural Societal Transformation: The first conceptualization of development sees it

as a long-term process of structural societal transformation. This perspective emphasizes

historical and long-term changes in socio-economic structures, ownership, technology,

and institutions. It does not prescribe specific objectives and recognizes that different

societies may follow unique development paths. However, it may have limited relevance

for guiding short-term development policies.

Short-to-Medium-Term Outcomes: The second conceptualization defines development

as short-to-medium-term outcomes with specific targets and measurable indicators. This

instrumental and technocratic view concentrates on achieving goals like poverty reduction

and the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). Critics argue that it can be paternalistic

and overlooks important dimensions of development, as it imposes universal values on

diverse contexts.

Post-Modern Critique: The third conceptualization takes a post-modern perspective,

critiquing development as a Western-imposed discourse. It considers development a

social construct where reality is shaped through discourse. Post-modernists argue that

development has perpetuated Western notions of superiority, leading to cultural

homogenization and oppression. This perspective highlights the power dynamics of


INSTITUTE OF GRADUATE STUDIES
AND RESEARCH
MANUEL S. ENVERGA UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION
Granted Autonomous Status
CHED CEB Res. 076-2009

development discourse and its role in defining problems. Critics, however, argue that it

can romanticize poverty as cultural autonomy and be seen as nihilistic. (What Is

‘Development’?, 2022)

INDICATORS OF DEVELOPMENT

To measure and track progress in development, various indicators are used. These

indicators go beyond economic metrics and encompass social and environmental

aspects. Common indicators of development include:

Gross Domestic Product (GDP)

GDP measures the economic output of a country (Mankiw, 2020). While it is a useful

indicator, it does not capture the full picture of development, as it doesn't consider income

distribution or quality of life (Stiglitz, Sen, & Fitoussi, 2009).

Human Development Index (HDI)

The HDI takes into account factors such as life expectancy, education, and per capita

income, providing a more holistic view of development (Human Development Index, n.d.)

Gender Development Index (GDI)

The GDI is a subset of the HDI that specifically examines gender disparities in health,

education, and income, highlighting the role of gender in development (Gender

Development Index, n.d.)


INSTITUTE OF GRADUATE STUDIES
AND RESEARCH
MANUEL S. ENVERGA UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION
Granted Autonomous Status
CHED CEB Res. 076-2009

Gender Inequality Index (GII)

The GII assesses gender disparities in reproductive health, empowerment, and economic

activity, shedding light on gender inequalities that persist within societies (Gender

Inequality Index (GII), n.d.)

IMPORTANCE OF GENDER IN DEVELOPMENT

Fundamental Human Right: Gender equality is a fundamental human right that must be

upheld to create a peaceful, prosperous, and sustainable world.

Unrealized Potential: Women and girls constitute half of the world's population, and their

untapped potential is critical for overall development.

Integral Development Approach: Gender and Development (GAD) emphasizes gender

equality as a fundamental value integral to development decisions, reshaping societal

structures for greater equity and empowerment.

Economic Disparities: Gender disparities in wages and unpaid care work contribute to

economic inequality, which can hinder overall development.


INSTITUTE OF GRADUATE STUDIES
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MANUEL S. ENVERGA UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION
Granted Autonomous Status
CHED CEB Res. 076-2009

Eradicating Gender Disparities: Gender equality is central to achieving equitable and

sustainable development by ensuring equal rights and opportunities for all individuals,

fostering social and institutional change. By addressing gender-based barriers,

development efforts can alleviate poverty, reduce income inequality, and improve overall

societal well-being (World Bank, 2020).

Universal Relevance: Gender equality is essential for all aspects of a healthy society,

from poverty reduction to promoting the well-being of everyone.

Collective Action: Individuals, regardless of gender, have a role in promoting gender

equality through various actions, such as supporting education and challenging biases.

Recognizing the importance of gender in development is crucial because it upholds

human rights, unlocks untapped potential, and fosters equitable and sustainable

development, benefiting society as a whole.

THE ROLE OF GENDER IN DEVELOPMENT

The role of gender in shaping development goals is fundamental, recognizing gender

equality as both a human right and a critical component for sustainable, prosperous, and

peaceful societies. Gender inequality persists across the world, impeding social progress.
INSTITUTE OF GRADUATE STUDIES
AND RESEARCH
MANUEL S. ENVERGA UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION
Granted Autonomous Status
CHED CEB Res. 076-2009

Women and girls, constituting half the global population, possess untapped potential, yet

continue to earn less than men in the labor market and disproportionately bear the burden

of unpaid domestic and care work. Gender-based violence, unequal care work, and

discrimination in public office serve as substantial obstacles, further exacerbated by the

COVID-19 pandemic. To dismantle systemic barriers to gender equality, political

leadership, investments, and comprehensive policy reforms are essential, with Goal 5 on

gender equality requiring a prominent place in national policies, budgets, and institutions.

Despite international commitments leading to progress in specific areas, the overarching

goal of complete gender equality remains unfulfilled, intensified by the pandemic.

Additional gender-related challenges include a lack of decision-making power over sexual

and reproductive health, intimate partner violence, and female genital mutilation, all of

which not only harm individual women and girls but also impede their full participation in

society. Gender equality is a fundamental human right that universally influences various

aspects of a healthy society, including poverty reduction and the well-being of all

individuals (Women and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), n.d.)

GENDER ISSUES AND DEVELOPMENT

In the article entitled “What does gender equality look like today?” published on October

6, 2021 in the website of UN Women, here are some of the Gender issues and

development.
INSTITUTE OF GRADUATE STUDIES
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MANUEL S. ENVERGA UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION
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CHED CEB Res. 076-2009

Goal 1. Poverty: Globally, a significant number of girls under 15 are growing up in

extreme poverty, with approximately 435 million women and girls living in extreme

poverty. The development required involves implementing comprehensive strategies to

improve education access, family planning, equal wages, and social transfers, potentially

lifting over 150 million women and girls out of poverty by 2030.

Goal 2. Zero Hunger: Female-headed small-scale farmer households earn 30% less

than those headed by men. To address this, funding, training, and land rights reforms are

needed to support women small-scale producers.

Goal 3. Good Health and Well-being: Disruptions in essential health services, including

sexual and reproductive health, have led to approximately 1.4 million additional

unintended pregnancies in lower- and middle-income countries. Prioritizing sexual and

reproductive health services, ensuring their continuous operation, and providing life-

saving medical resources are essential developments.

Goal 4. Quality Education: The pandemic has resulted in the closure of schools in many

countries, disproportionately affecting girls' education. Urgent measures are required to

protect girls' education, especially those from marginalized communities.


INSTITUTE OF GRADUATE STUDIES
AND RESEARCH
MANUEL S. ENVERGA UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION
Granted Autonomous Status
CHED CEB Res. 076-2009

Goal 5. Gender Equality: The pandemic has reversed progress in expanding women's

rights and opportunities. Measures include gender-responsive laws, policies, and

budgeting to place women and girls at the center of response and recovery.

Goal 6. Clean Water and Sanitation: Involving women in water management processes

is essential to ensure equitable access to safe drinking water and sanitation, supporting

women's safety and well-being.

Goal 7. Affordable and Clean Energy: Promoting women's participation in STEM

education, providing support for women entering the energy sector, closing the gender

pay gap, and increasing women's leadership in the industry are necessary developments.

Goal 8. Decent Work and Economic Growth: Support for women in the workforce

should include decent work guarantees, labor law reforms, and affordable childcare

access, ensuring gender equality in the labor market.

Goal 9. Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure: Supporting women researchers

through initiatives like research grant quotas for women-led teams is crucial to enhance

women's involvement in scientific fields.


INSTITUTE OF GRADUATE STUDIES
AND RESEARCH
MANUEL S. ENVERGA UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION
Granted Autonomous Status
CHED CEB Res. 076-2009

Goal 10. Reduced Inequalities: Committing to end racism and discrimination and

investing in inclusive, universal, gender-responsive social protection systems are

required to address the impact of limited progress on women facing multiple forms of

discrimination.

Goal 11. Sustainable Cities and Communities: Prioritizing the needs of urban poor

women, including the provision of durable and adequate housing and equitable access to

land, is essential for the well-being of women and girls in informal settlements and slums.

Goal 12. Sustainable Consumption and Production, Goal 13. Climate Action, Goal

14. Life Below Water, and Goal 15. Life on Land: Ensuring that women activists,

scientists, and researchers have equal representation and access to platforms discussing

climate and environmental issues is a necessary development.

Goal 16. Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions: Promoting women's equal share of

power and decision-making at all levels is vital to overcome the limitations posed by the

lack of women in decision-making roles.

Goal 17. Global Partnerships for the Goals: Gender equality is central to all 17 Global

Goals, and commitments to achieving these goals should prioritize women. There is a

need for a bold commitment to accelerate progress and achieve gender equality across
INSTITUTE OF GRADUATE STUDIES
AND RESEARCH
MANUEL S. ENVERGA UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION
Granted Autonomous Status
CHED CEB Res. 076-2009

all indicators. Developing gender-responsive laws, policies, and budgeting is crucial in

building forward differently and better to place women and girls at the center of response

and recovery efforts.

THE IMPACT OF GENDER INEQUALITY ON SOCIETAL DEVELOPMENT

Gender inequality has far-reaching implications for societal development, affecting

various aspects of a society's economic, social, and political well-being. Gender inequality

not only hampers individual opportunities but also limits a country's progress as a whole.

This can be observed in disparities in education, labor force participation, and political

representation.

Education is a key driver of societal development, and gender inequality in

education can impede progress. According to Kabeer (2005), "gender-based disparities

in education can lead to diminished human capital, reduced productivity, and lower

economic growth." When girls and women are denied equal access to education, it

constrains their potential and limits their contribution to society.

Gender inequality in the labor force is another significant factor. The World

Economic Forum's Global Gender Gap Report (2020) revealed that gender gaps in

economic participation and opportunity can hinder economic growth. Discrimination and

unequal pay can lead to lower workforce productivity and reduced innovation, impacting

a country's overall development.


INSTITUTE OF GRADUATE STUDIES
AND RESEARCH
MANUEL S. ENVERGA UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION
Granted Autonomous Status
CHED CEB Res. 076-2009

Political representation is a vital aspect of societal development. Gender inequality

in politics can lead to policies and decision-making that do not adequately address the

needs and concerns of women. As Sen (2001) notes, political inequalities based on

gender can lead to policies that are less inclusive and less responsive to the diverse

needs of the population.

The findings of the research article entitled “An empirical analysis of the impact of gender

inequality and sex ratios at birth on China’s economic growth” about the impact of gender

inequality on societal development of China are as follow:

- Economic Impact: Gender inequality, particularly in economic participation and

opportunity, can have a negative impact on economic growth. When a significant

portion of the population is excluded from the workforce or experiences wage

disparities, it can hinder a country's overall productivity and economic potential.

- Education: Gender disparities in education can limit the potential of a society.

Ensuring equal access to education for women and girls is crucial for personal

development and for the overall economic and social advancement of a nation.

- Health: Gender inequality in healthcare access and quality can lead to disparities

in health outcomes. Neglecting women's health can have long-term consequences

for societal well-being and development.


INSTITUTE OF GRADUATE STUDIES
AND RESEARCH
MANUEL S. ENVERGA UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION
Granted Autonomous Status
CHED CEB Res. 076-2009

- Political Participation: As mentioned, gender inequality in politics can also affect

societal development. When women are underrepresented in political decision-

making processes, their perspectives and needs may not be adequately

addressed in policies and legislation.

- Demographic Issues: High sex ratios at birth due to gender-based discrimination,

such as female infanticide or selective abortion, can lead to long-term demographic

imbalances. A skewed gender ratio can have social and economic consequences,

including potential social unrest.

China exhibits significant gender inequality across economic, educational,

healthcare, and political domains, ranking 106th out of 153 countries in terms of overall

gender disparity. Specifically, in economic participation and opportunities, China ranks

91st among these nations, even falling behind emerging economies like Brazil and

Russia, as reported by the World Economic Forum in 2020. The widening gender gap in

China's labor market, especially as the nation's economic growth slows, threatens to

impose a more substantial burden on the economy. China's ascent as a global economic

powerhouse in recent decades has disproportionately disadvantaged women,

aggravating gender inequality in the workforce. (Wu et al., 2022)

In summary, gender inequality can have a profound impact on societal

development. Disparities in education, labor force participation, and political


INSTITUTE OF GRADUATE STUDIES
AND RESEARCH
MANUEL S. ENVERGA UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION
Granted Autonomous Status
CHED CEB Res. 076-2009

representation hinder a country's progress, limiting its economic, social, and political

potential.

NATIONAL POLICIES FOR GENDER EQUITY IN THE PHILIPPINES

In the Philippines, national policies for gender equity encompass various legal

frameworks and government initiatives designed to promote gender equality, protect

women's rights, and eliminate gender-based discrimination and violence. Some of the

key policies and laws related to gender equity include:

The Magna Carta of Women (2009): This law emphasizes the protection and

promotion of women's rights, including provisions for equal opportunities in education,

employment, and political participation. It also mandates gender-responsive programs

and services within government agencies, as well as access to comprehensive health

services, including reproductive health.

Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act of 2004: This landmark

law addresses violence against women and children, imposing harsher penalties on

perpetrators of gender-based violence. It also includes measures to protect victims and

prevent further abuse.

Rape Law of 1997: This law criminalizes rape and other forms of sexual assault,

broadening the definition of rape to include marital rape and rape by public officers or

employees. It also provides stiffer penalties for perpetrators of rape and sexual assault.
INSTITUTE OF GRADUATE STUDIES
AND RESEARCH
MANUEL S. ENVERGA UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION
Granted Autonomous Status
CHED CEB Res. 076-2009

Gender and Development (GAD) Program: This government initiative aims to

promote gender equality and women's empowerment across all sectors of society. It

integrates gender perspectives in policies, programs, and activities of government

agencies, and allocates funds for GAD activities.

Anti-Sexual Harassment Act: This law defines and penalizes sexual harassment

in workplaces, educational institutions, and training centers (Republic of the Philippines,

2016).

Reproductive Health Law: Enacted in 2012, this law guarantees universal access

to methods of contraception, maternal care, and comprehensive sexual education

(Republic of the Philippines, 2012).

Other Gender-Sensitive Policies: The Philippines has other gender-sensitive

policies, such as the Gender-Responsive Economic Actions for the Transformation of

Women (GREAT Women) Project, the Women's Priority Legislative Agenda, and the

Gender-Fair Education Policy, all aimed at advancing gender equality.

CONCLUSION:

In conclusion, the module on "Gender and Development" provides an insightful

exploration of the interrelationship of gender and development, addressing various

gender-related challenges and disparities that hinder the development process. It

emphasizes the importance of understanding the impact of gender inequality on societal

development and recognizing the significance of national policies for gender equity.
INSTITUTE OF GRADUATE STUDIES
AND RESEARCH
MANUEL S. ENVERGA UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION
Granted Autonomous Status
CHED CEB Res. 076-2009

The concept of development is approached from multiple perspectives,

highlighting the need for structural societal transformation, short-to-medium-term

outcomes, and post-modern critiques. Indicators of development go beyond economic

metrics and include measures like the Human Development Index, Gender Development

Index, and Gender Inequality Index.

The importance of gender in development is underscored, as it is not only a

fundamental human right but also vital for unlocking untapped potential, promoting

economic equity, and achieving societal well-being. The role of gender in shaping

development goals is fundamental, and it necessitates comprehensive efforts to address

gender disparities in various aspects of life.

Gender issues and development are thoroughly examined, encompassing topics

like poverty, education, healthcare, economic participation, and political representation.

The impact of gender inequality on societal development is evident in disparities in

education, labor force participation, and political representation, with wide-ranging

consequences for economic, social, and political progress.

The Philippines' national policies for gender equity include key laws and initiatives

such as the Magna Carta of Women, the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their

Children Act, and the Gender and Development (GAD) Program. These policies aim to

promote gender equality, protect women's rights, and eliminate gender-based

discrimination and violence.


INSTITUTE OF GRADUATE STUDIES
AND RESEARCH
MANUEL S. ENVERGA UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION
Granted Autonomous Status
CHED CEB Res. 076-2009

In summary, understanding the interplay between gender and development is

crucial for fostering equitable and sustainable societies. National policies for gender

equity play a pivotal role in addressing gender disparities and promoting the well-being of

all individuals, contributing to overall societal development.

REFERENCES

Attorney, P. (2023, June 15). Gender and Equality: A Look into Gender-Based Laws and

Policies in the Philippines. https://attorney.org.ph/legal-news/439-gender-and-

equality-a-look-into-gender-based-laws-and-policies-in-the-philippines

Gender and Development. (n.d.). https://web.coa.gov.ph/. Retrieved October 15, 2023,

from https://web.coa.gov.ph/GAD/index.php/knowledgebase/67-what-is-gender-

and-development-gad

Gender and development. (n.d.). https://www.ilo.org/global/topics/economic-and-social-

development/gender-and-development/lang--en/index.htm

Gender and Development. (n.d.). World Bank.

https://www.worldbank.org/en/programs/knowledge-for-change/brief/gender-

and-development

Gender Development Index. (n.d.). Human Development Reports.

https://hdr.undp.org/gender-development-index#/indicies/GDI
INSTITUTE OF GRADUATE STUDIES
AND RESEARCH
MANUEL S. ENVERGA UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION
Granted Autonomous Status
CHED CEB Res. 076-2009

Gender Inequality Index (GII). (n.d.). https://www.who.int/data/nutrition/nlis/info/gender-

inequality-index-(gii)

Human development and gender inequality - GSDRC. (2015, October 28). GSDRC -

Governance, Social Development, Conflict and Humanitarian Knowledge

Services. https://gsdrc.org/topic-guides/social-development-and-human-

development/human-development-and-gender-inequality/

Human Development Index. (n.d.). Human Development Reports.

https://hdr.undp.org/data-center/human-development-index#/indicies/HDI

Updated Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment Plan 2019-2025. (n.d.).

https://library.pcw.gov.ph/updated-gender-equality-and-womens-empowerment-

plan-2019-2025/

What does gender equality look like today? (2021, October 6). UN Women –

Headquarters. https://www.unwomen.org/en/news/stories/2021/10/feature-what-

does-gender-equality-look-like-today

What is ‘Development’? (2022, December 7). www.sagepub.com. Retrieved October 15,

2023, from https://www.sagepub.com/sites/default/files/upm-

binaries/18296_5070_Sumner_Ch01.pdf

Women and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). (n.d.). UN Women –

Headquarters. https://www.unwomen.org/en/news/in-focus/women-and-the-sdgs

Wu, X., Ali, A., Zhang, T., Chen, J., & Hu, W. (2022, October 26). An empirical analysis

of the impact of gender inequality and sex ratios at birth on China’s economic
INSTITUTE OF GRADUATE STUDIES
AND RESEARCH
MANUEL S. ENVERGA UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION
Granted Autonomous Status
CHED CEB Res. 076-2009

growth. Frontiers in Psychology; Frontiers Media.

https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2022.1003467

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