Gender Sensitisation: Challenging Bias, One Conversation at a Time on 7th June 2025

Attending Dr. Natasha Kaul's session on Gender Sensitisation was a deeply reflective and eye-opening experience. As someone preparing to step into the professional world, I've been aware of gender issues in society, but this session helped me see how subtle and deeply internalised gender bias really is-and how it silently shapes lives, decisions, and opportunities.

Dr. Kaul began by addressing the often invisible yet powerful ways in which gender bias creeps into workplace practices, especially during job selection and job offers. She explained how women are sometimes seen as less competent, less committed, or not "leadership material", despite having the same-or even more-qualifications than their male counterparts. These biases may not always be intentional, but they are certainly impactful. What really stayed with me was her emphasis that recognising bias is only the first step; we must actively work to unlearn it.

She shared personal anecdotes that brought these issues closer to home. One particularly striking example was from her own family. As a young girl, she was expected to be home by 9 PM, regardless of where in the world she was. This rule didn't apply to the boys in her family. It was an unspoken rule, based on the idea that girls needed protection and monitoring, while boys were trusted with freedom.

Dr. Kaul now has two daughters of her own. She reflected honestly on whether she would raise them with the same freedom boys are given-a question she admitted she could only truly answer as her daughters grow older. This moment reminded me that even the most progressive and aware individuals are constantly navigating internalised norms and generational values. It's not easy, but awareness is the beginning of change.

She also spoke about everyday examples of gender stereotyping-like the assumption that women are not good drivers. While this may seem like a harmless joke to some, it actually reflects a deeper pattern of undermining women's abilities in various fields, from driving to leadership. These stereotypes reinforce a narrative that women are inherently less capable, which ultimately limits their confidence and opportunities.

What I appreciated most about the session was how it didn't just focus on the problems-it also pointed towards solutions. Gender sensitisation, Dr. Kaul explained, is about building awareness, yes, but also about actively changing behaviors and attitudes. It's about ensuring that respect for all genders becomes the norm, not the exception. She encouraged us to reflect on our own biases-not to feel guilty, but to grow.

I left the session feeling inspired and more aware. I realised that while gender equality is a societal challenge, change begins with individuals-with the choices we make, the jokes we laugh at (or don't), and the fairness we practice in our homes and workplaces. Dr. Kaul's session wasn't just a lecture; it was a powerful reminder that awareness, empathy, and courage are our best tools in creating a truly inclusive world.

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