From an early age, children absorb the values, behaviours, and beliefs modelled around them. These early lessons can shape the way they view themselves and others well into adulthood. That’s why it’s so important to intentionally teach young people the social values we want to see in the future, especially when it comes to how boys and men treat women and girls.

Feminism is often misunderstood as a movement just for women. But in reality, feminism is about fairness for everyone.

It challenges systems—like patriarchy—that harm both women and men. While women often bear the brunt of inequality, men also face pressure to conform to limiting stereotypes. For example, boys may be discouraged from expressing emotions or showing vulnerability.

When we push for gender equality, we’re working toward a world where:

• Girls can learn, lead, and live without fear.

• Boys can grow up kind, empathetic, and free to be themselves.

A more equal world benefits everyone.

Why Boys Need to Be Part of the Conversation

Gender education should never focus on girls alone. When we do, we risk unintentionally placing the burden of change on them, while leaving boys out of the solution.

Here’s what teaching boys about gender equality should look like:

• Encouraging respect toward women and girls.

• Challenging harmful language and “boys will be boys” mindsets.

• Teaching about sexual harassment, consent, and boundaries.

• Introducing female role models that boys can admire and support.

We must raise boys to see girls as equals, not competitors, not inferior, and never as objects.

Our Work in Action: The PADs Project

At Homeland Ghana, our PADs Education Project is one way we promote gender equality beyond the classroom.

On distribution days:

• Boys actively participate by helping hand out sanitary pads to girls.

• They join the conversations, learn about menstrual health, and understand the importance of support—not shame.

• Many are proud to be photographed with their classmates, showing that care and compassion aren’t just “girls’ issues.” 

These moments matter. They teach boys that respecting and supporting girls is a strength, not a weakness.

Join the Conversation

• What values were you taught as a child that shaped how you treat others?
• What do you think we need to do differently to raise more empathetic boys and men?

 Share your thoughts in the comments. Or email us at info@homelandghana.org — we’d love to hear your perspective.