The conduct of the Gender Analysis and Gender Planning Training marked another significant step in strengthening gender responsiveness in the cooperative sector. The activity brought together members of the Gender and Development (GAD) Committees and GAD Focal Persons from various cooperatives with the objective of enhancing their knowledge, skills, and commitment in integrating gender perspectives into cooperative programs and services.

The training focused on deepening the participants’ understanding of basic gender concepts, gender equality, and the importance of gender-responsive planning in cooperative development. Through interactive discussions and workshops, participants were able to differentiate between sex and gender, identify gender roles within their organizations, and recognize gender issues that affect both men and women in the cooperative sector. The activity also emphasized that gender mainstreaming is not limited to women’s concerns alone, but rather a strategy to ensure equal opportunities, participation, and benefits for all members.

One of the highlights of the activity was the conduct of gender analysis workshops, where participants were guided in identifying gender gaps in membership participation, leadership roles, access to services, and decision-making processes within their respective cooperatives. The group activities allowed the participants to reflect on actual situations in their organizations and to propose practical and achievable gender-responsive interventions.

The training also introduced the participants to the process of gender planning. Participants learned how to translate identified gender issues into programs, projects, and activities that are responsive to the needs of cooperative members. Emphasis was placed on preparing gender-responsive plans that are aligned with the objectives of the cooperative and the principles of inclusive and sustainable development.

Moreover, the activity strengthened the participants’ awareness of their important role as GAD Committee members and GAD Focal Persons. They were encouraged to become advocates of gender equality within their cooperatives and to promote policies and practices that support inclusive participation, equal access to opportunities, and fair distribution of benefits among members.

Through this activity, the participants gained not only knowledge but also practical tools that they can immediately apply in their respective organizations. The conduct of the Gender Analysis and Gender Planning Training is expected to contribute to the development of more gender-responsive cooperatives and to the strengthening of the role of cooperatives as partners in promoting inclusive growth and community development.

The successful conduct of the activity reflects the continued commitment to empowering cooperatives and promoting gender equality as an essential component of sustainable development. It is hoped that the knowledge and skills gained from the training will further inspire the participants to integrate gender perspectives in their programs, policies, and services, ultimately leading to more inclusive and equitable cooperatives.