Final Bell at the School of Gender Activists (SGA)

On August 18, 2023, the final bell rang in the summer garden of Serena Hotel in Dushanbe during the closing ceremony of the Schools of Gender Activists (SGA). The schools were organized by UN Women in collaboration with the Public Organization “Gender and Development” and the Committee on Women and Family Affairs under the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan within the framework of the Spotlight Initiative in Tajikistan – a joint initiative of the European Union (EU) and the United Nations (UN) to eliminate violence against women and girls.
This year, two new Schools were launched: one in Dushanbe (for youth from GBAO, Khatlon region, Dushanbe, and DRD) and one in Khujand (for youth from the cities and districts of Sughd province).
“At the School of Gender Activists, I realized that I have my own gender stereotypes that hinder the advancement of gender equality. In the future, I will work to eliminate them in my local community, but I will definitely start with myself.”
— Gulnoza Mamadalieva, Vakhsh district, mentor at the Tomiris Cultural and Educational Center, graduate of the SGA for youth in Dushanbe.

“The School gave me not only the opportunity to deepen my knowledge on gender equality — it changed my views and values in this area, my principles and approaches to gender norms, and relationships between men and women, including between ME and my WIFE, between ME and my DAUGHTERS. I am already applying the knowledge and skills gained at the SGA in my work with youth, the broader community, and beyond my own district.”
— Khusrav Bobobekov, Yovon district, Director of the CSO “Sayyorai Umed,” graduate of the SGA advanced course.
“The SGA taught us how to turn dreams into goals, helped us recognize our importance in the fight against inequality, enhanced our gender sensitivity, and gave us the confidence to build a brighter future together — equipped with new knowledge and new connections. We had the opportunity to visit government and civil society organizations and meet women leaders.”
— Rukhshona Achilova, Khujand, student, graduate of the SGA.
“I cannot fail to mention our incredible trainers, the engaging discussions during the training sessions, and the meetings with experts, researchers, psychologists, and others working in the field of the women’s movement. We became familiar with real practices of promoting gender equality. We are grateful to everyone who opened the door to new opportunities and connections. Most importantly, we found a new family — one that we will walk alongside on the path to achieving gender equality.”
— Nigora Valikhojaeva, Dushanbe, graduate of the SGA advanced course.
The most valuable outcome was the creation of the SGA Alumni Network, initiated by the graduates themselves. The members of this Network are gender activists with a strong civic position, committed to building gender-sensitive communities in which they live. They are ready to implement a joint action plan developed in collaboration with the Committee on Women and Family Affairs under the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan during the summer retreat held in June this year.
We wish you a successful journey, dear graduates, and look forward to seeing you again!
For your information:
SGA participants received certificates:
15 graduates of the advanced course were awarded certificates for completing a 48-day in-depth training program;
36 participants of the SGA for youth in Dushanbe and Khujand received certificates for completing a 20-day introductory course on gender theory, legislation, and practical approaches to protecting the rights of women and girls and preventing violence, terrorism, extremism, and other threats.
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