Gender-Based Violence Policy for Danish Public School Batkhela

Danish Public School Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Gender Equality Policy

1. Preamble

1.1. The Danish Public School, committed to upholding the educational standards set by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province and the directives of the Private Schools Regulatory Authority (PSRA), establishes this Gender Equality Policy to ensure a discrimination-free and inclusive learning environment.

1.2. This policy aligns with the legal framework of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province and the guidelines provided by the Private Schools Regulatory Authority.

2. Objectives

2.1. Eliminate gender-based discrimination, harassment, and bias within the school community.

2.2. Promote a culture of equality, respect, and inclusivity among students, faculty, and staff.

3. Compliance with Provincial Laws

3.1. The school shall abide by all relevant laws and regulations of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province about gender equality in educational institutions.

4. Responsibilities

4.1. Administration Staff Responsibilities:

4.1.1. Develop and implement policies and procedures that promote gender equality within the school, ensuring compliance with provincial regulations.

4.1.2. Facilitate training programs for all staff members, including teachers, on gender sensitivity, inclusivity, and preventing gender-based discrimination.

4.1.3. Establish and maintain confidential reporting mechanisms for incidents of gender-based discrimination or harassment, ensuring the protection of individuals reporting such incidents.

4.1.4. Oversee the recruitment and hiring process to ensure it is fair, transparent, and free from gender bias, following PSRA guidelines.

4.1.5. Collaborate with relevant stakeholders, including parents, community members, and organizations, to enhance gender equality initiatives outlined by the Private Schools Regulatory Authority.

4.2. Teachers' Responsibilities:

4.2.1. Foster a classroom environment that is free from gender bias and discrimination, promoting equal opportunities for all students.

4.2.2. Incorporate content in lessons that promote gender equality, challenge stereotypes, and align with provincial guidelines.

4.2.3. Attend and actively participate in gender sensitivity training sessions organized by the school administration.

4.2.4. Report incidents of gender-based discrimination or harassment promptly and follow established procedures for addressing such incidents.

4.2.5. Encourage student awareness of gender equality through inclusive teaching practices and classroom discussions.

5. Recruitment and Hiring Practices

5.1. The administration shall ensure that the recruitment and hiring processes are fair and transparent, and comply with the guidelines set forth by the Private Schools Regulatory Authority, promoting diversity at all levels.

6. Training and Awareness Programs

6.1. The administration, in collaboration with teachers, shall conduct regular training sessions for all staff on gender sensitivity, inclusivity, and the prevention of gender-based discrimination, as directed by the PSRA.

7. Reporting Mechanisms

7.1. The administration is responsible for establishing and maintaining clear and confidential reporting mechanisms for incidents of gender-based discrimination or harassment, ensuring protection against retaliation for individuals reporting such incidents.

8. Support Services

8.1. The administration shall provide necessary support services, counseling, and resources for individuals affected by gender-based discrimination or harassment, ensuring a fair process for all parties involved.

9. Monitoring and Evaluation

9.1. in collaboration with teachers, the administration shall implement a system for monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of the gender equality policy, regularly reviewing and updating the policy based on feedback and changes in regulations.

This policy is reviewed by legal experts familiar with both the provincial regulations and the guidelines provided by the Private Schools Regulatory Authority in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Adjustments are allowed only based on any specific local nuances or changes in regulations.

Danish Public School and College, Batkhela, Malakand, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan

Policy Against Gender-Based Violence

Effective Date: 22/03/2019

1. Preamble:

Danish Public School and College in Batkhela, Malakand, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, is dedicated to providing a safe, inclusive, and respectful learning environment for all its members. This policy against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) underscores our commitment to preventing, addressing, and eliminating all forms of violence based on gender within our educational community.

2. Definition:

Gender-based violence is defined as any harmful act directed at an individual or group based on their gender, causing physical, sexual, psychological, or economic harm. This includes but is not limited to, harassment, assault, discrimination, and any form of violence perpetuated based on gender identity or expression.

3. Scope:

This policy applies to all members of the Danish Public School and College community, including students, faculty, staff, parents, and visitors.

4. Principles:

• Zero Tolerance: Danish Public Schools and Colleges maintain a zero-tolerance stance towards Gender-Based Violence in any form. Acts of GBV will be treated with the utmost seriousness, and appropriate action will be taken.
• Gender Equality: We are committed to promoting gender equality, ensuring that all individuals have equal opportunities, rights, and access to resources.
• Confidentiality: Reports of GBV will be handled with the strictest confidentiality, with information disclosed only on a need-to-know basis and in compliance with legal obligations.
• Support and Resources: The school will provide support and resources to victims/survivors of GBV, including access to counseling, medical assistance, and legal support.

5. Prevention and Education:

• Conduct regular awareness campaigns and educational programs to educate the school community about GBV, its impact, and preventive measures.
• Integrate gender sensitivity into the curriculum to foster an understanding of equality and respect among students.

6. Reporting Mechanism:

• Establish a clear and confidential reporting mechanism for individuals who have experienced or witnessed GBV, ensuring accessibility to all members of the school community.
• Designate a confidential point of contact responsible for receiving and addressing reports of GBV.

7. Investigation and Response:

• Promptly and impartially investigate all reports of GBV.
• Take appropriate disciplinary action against individuals found responsible for perpetrating GBV, following established school policies and legal frameworks.

8. Legal Compliance:

• Ensure compliance with all relevant local, provincial, and national laws addressing GBV.

9. Inclusive Practices:

• Foster an inclusive environment that respects diverse gender identities and expressions.
• Provide training to staff on recognizing and addressing unconscious biases and discriminatory behaviors.

10. Review and Evaluation:

• Regularly review and update this policy to reflect evolving organizational needs and changes in legislation related to GBV.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of preventive measures and response mechanisms.

11. Conclusion:

This policy reaffirms the Danish Public School and College's commitment to creating a secure and nurturing environment that upholds the principles of equality, respect, and dignity for all individuals. Through the implementation of this Policy Against Gender-Based Violence, we aim to contribute to a community that is free from discrimination and violence based on gender.

Dually Signed By,

Managing Director: Khair ul Amin _____________________________________

Principal Amir Zeb: ____________________________________________________

Date: 22/03/2019