Gender Transformative Education in Jordan: Needs Assessment and Policy Recommendations
This report presents a comprehensive assessment of the current state of gender-transformative education (GTE) in Jordan. It highlights progress and positive developments within the country. This includes policy frameworks aimed at implementing gender mainstreaming strategies, nearly equal enrollment rates in both primary and secondary education, and support for international and national programs that integrate gender-transformative approaches, particularly for refugee and marginalized students. However, despite these advancements, refugee students—especially Syrians—continue to face challenges such as overcrowded classrooms, violence, and discrimination.
While these programs have opened the door for policy improvement and reform, they still lack key elements necessary to fully achieve GTE. For instance, Jordan’s National Education Strategy (2018-2025) does not specifically address gender-transformative education, and government initiatives specifically targeting gender equality in education remain limited. On the other hand, nongovernmental organization (NGO) led initiatives, such as the United Nations Children’s Fund’s (UNICEF) Makani Program, have taken steps toward integrating gender-responsive approaches into education.
The report also explores major barriers to implementing GTE, including deeply rooted social norms and gender stereotypes. Patriarchal beliefs continue to shape educational experiences, limiting opportunities for girls, especially in rural areas. Gender-based violence (GBV) and school-related gender-based violence (SRGBV) remain significant issues, exacerbated by the lack of institutional support for survivors. Key findings confirm that traditional gender stereotypes persist among students, and many schools actively avoid courses and discussions on gender-related topics, particularly sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), primarily due to fears of backlash from parents. Furthermore, male resistance to gender-transformative education remains a challenge, as indicated by our survey data.
To achieve GTE in Jordan, this report recommends reforming curricula to challenge harmful gender norms by integrating gender-related content and topics training teachers to promote gender equity and awareness, and ensuring safe and supportive school environments free from violence, discrimination, and harassment. Additionally, a strong policy framework is essential to ensure the inclusion of GTE in national education strategies, particularly addressing the needs of refugee students and tackling the root causes of discrimination and limited access.
By implementing these recommendations, Jordan can bridge existing gender gaps, create a more inclusive education system, and foster long-term societal change. Failure to act will deepen harmful gender norms and perpetuate an intergenerational cycle of disadvantage and violence.
Read the full brief here.
