Game On for Equality: Advancing Gender Equality Through Sport
Game On for Equality: Advancing Gender Equality Through Sport
Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ)
Partner
Pakistan
Location
2 years
Duration
Introduction
Working with young people through sport to build resilience and champion gender equality in northern Pakistan.
Community details
Pakistan, home to over 230 million people, has immense potential. However, systemic barriers including poverty, natural disasters exacerbated by climate change and socioeconomic and gender disparities impact many communities. In collaboration with local actors, GIZ works with young people in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the smallest province in terms of land size but one of Pakistan’s most populated. Poverty as well as limited educational and sporting opportunities for women and minorities have contributed to present inequalities. In particular, as a result of gender stereotypes and discrimination, there is a lack of safe spaces for girls and women to play sports and reap the benefits of participating.
About the project
“Game On For Equality!" is a transformative initiative in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, aimed at supporting young people and promoting gender equality through sports. Implemented in Peshawar and Mardan, the project follows a participatory approach, engaging government stakeholders, community leaders, and young leaders to create inclusive, safe, and accessible sports programs. The initiative strengthens government schools, builds youth leadership, and fosters community engagement. The project emphasizes gender equality, inclusion of people with disabilities, and protection against harassment and discrimination, ensuring that sports are a tool for empowerment for all.
By integrating sports into education and community initiatives, the project trains Physical Education Teachers (PETs) and Young Leaders (YLs) to use sports as a tool for social and emotional development, while fostering safe, inclusive spaces for girls, women, transgender individuals, and people with disabilities. Through structured training, Sport for Development (S4D) sessions, and community-led initiatives, the project challenges gender stereotypes, promotes positive masculinity, and addresses harassment and social exclusion. Additionally, an impact study ensures an evidence-based approach, assessing progress and refining strategies in collaboration with universities and local stakeholders.
Moving for Change
“Game On For Equality!" uses Sport for Development (S4D) to empower youth, promote gender equality, and create inclusive spaces in Pakistan. Through training and community initiatives, it challenges stereotypes, promotes positive masculinity, and combats harassment and exclusion, guided by an impact study for lasting change.
Requested grant amount
€622,059
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