KAS Japan’s Post

The recent roundtable discussion on “Gender Inclusive Urban Spaces”, jointly organized by TalentNomics India and the #SOPAS Programme of KAS Japan, identified crucial elements to ensure equal access to education, work, and overall well-being for women. Key steps highlighted to improve access, include the need to integrate gender perspectives in urban planning, increasing funding and focusing on effective implementation by aligning stakeholders with existing policies. Innovative recruitment strategies and initiatives must be devised to encourage more women to be employed in urban spaces to effectively make public infrastructure and services more inclusive. For comprehensive insights and actionable policy recommendations, read the full outcome report here: https://lnkd.in/gprg_gnh #GenderEquality #UrbanPlanning #Diversity #PublicServices #PolicyRecommendations #EqualAccess

The gender sensitivity landscape in Alipurduar and Cooch Behar displays significant contrasts. After spending nearly seven years in Cooch Behar and the last five months in Alipurduar, I have noted differing levels of women's economic engagement. In Cooch Behar, many women participate in agriculture, but few operate businesses due to cultural perceptions regarding safety and dignity. Conversely, in Alipurduar, women are more actively involved in running various businesses such as tea stalls and grocery shops. This disparity can be attributed, in part, to the presence of dual-income households where husbands work outside the home, fostering a more entrepreneurial environment. My forthcoming projects aimed at promoting gender equity and economic empowerment will further illuminate these differences in gender dynamics between the two districts.

As India aims to achieve greater gender parity in the workforce, the Thozhi model offers a replicable framework for other states. NCAER Faculty Aakash Dev how Thozhi Hostels' public-private partnership model is creating a favourable work environment for women in urban areas. https://bit.ly/3ZMM00m

The recent research expedition to Edo State highlighted the critical importance of Digital Readiness in the region. The focus on promoting technology usage among the locals yielded heartening results, with the community displaying eagerness and appreciation for the knowledge shared. Interacting with the residents offered valuable insights into the significance of technology in rural areas, especially concerning gender inclusion. The findings from the study are poised to drive sustainable development within these communities. Each interaction in Edo State left a profound impact, reinforcing the commitment to societal progress. The opportunity to positively influence lives, no matter how modest, underlined the dedication to contributing to the well-being of those encountered. #DigitalReadinessinedostate #policyinnovationcentre #CommunityImpact #SustainableDevelopment

Thanks to the visionary leadership of Laghu Parashar, PhD

📢 📢 Our series on #WFPGender continues with a simple guide to measuring the gender impact of your programmes, applicable across thematic areas and scale of implementation. Determining the gender impact of development programs is crucial as it ensures equitable benefits for all genders, preventing the reinforcement of existing inequalities.     This handy assessment helps tailor interventions to address specific needs and challenges faced by different genders, enhancing overall effectiveness. It also promotes inclusive growth and social justice, ensuring that development outcomes are sustainable and beneficial for entire communities.     Ultimately, understanding gender impact fosters more resilient and balanced societies. For more resources to enhance your programmes, whether you are a corporate entity or NGO, check out https://lnkd.in/g8DJtFKV Aradhana Srivastava Sukanya Kalita Vaiphei Priskila Macwan Azhar Haque Rupin Mahiyaria Aayushi J. Taylor S. Denson Elisabeth Faure Parvinder Singh Shyamalima Kalita Naoko Omuro Phataraphong Ruenlouang

An electric (r)EVolution led by women and transgender drivers 🛺 In a sector which severely lacks gender inclusion, the Mo E-ride project from the Indian state of #Odisha stands as a beacon of hope. This initiative not only provides a sustainable first and end-mile connectivity to the city bus service, but also empowers the most marginalised sections of society by providing them livelihood alternatives. Mo E-ride is an electric rickshaw service driven entirely by women, transgenders, and HIV+ persons. For many beneficiaries who underwent the driver training, this is their first job. Sumi Pingua had never been employed before and proudly shares that their family is elated about them earning a respectful living. Sumi feels happy to be part of an initiative that welcomes all genders. “We are usually discarded wherever we go. But this place is different. We cannot let fear override us. We can prove our mettle and earn a living at the same time. I feel people will accept us as well as the E-Ride.” In our series #HerSuccessStories we spotlight remarkable women who are transforming their communities and our planet. With determination, courage, and a pioneering spirit, these changemakers are not only rewriting their own narratives but also empowering others and driving meaningful impact. Stay tuned to meet these incredible women whose stories inspire us all to strive for a better future! Learn more about our work: https://lnkd.in/ggCRFaEM 📌 Bundesministerium für wirtschaftliche Zusammenarbeit und Entwicklung (BMZ) | Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs | Capital Region Urban Transport | Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit GmbH | German Embassy New Delhi

Announcing #BetaPadhaoDeshJagao: A Practical Guidebook For Breaking Stereotypes in Raising Our Boys Today, on International Men’s Day, The Better India is proud to launch an initiative that couldn’t be more relevant in today’s world — Raising Boys Right: A Practical Guide for Nurturing Respectful Young Men. The guidebook is a call to action for everyone who believes in creating a future rooted in empathy, equality, and respect. It’s not just about shaping better men; it’s about transforming our collective mindset for a better, safer, and more just society. 🌟Why does this matter?🌟 Because so many of the challenges we face — gender inequality, toxic masculinity, and even the mental health crisis among men — stem from how society raises its boys. It’s time to break this cycle, to teach boys that strength lies in kindness, that respect is a non-negotiable, and that equality benefits us all. This is not just a parenting or educational guide — it’s a movement. A movement to challenge norms, change narratives, and inspire action. 👉 Explore the guidebook and our campaign: https://lnkd.in/duuC87GZ We need YOUR voice. 🔗 Share this guidebook with your network. 💬 Join the conversation. 🙌 Support the initiative in any way you can. Let’s make “Beta Padhao, Desh Jagao” more than just a slogan. Together, let’s build a generation that defines strength through compassion and equality. #RaiseBoysRight #InternationalMensDay #BetaPadhaoDeshJagao #TheBetterIndia #Guidebook #Parenting #Gender #Sensitivity

🧩 State2State Gender & Social Inclusion (GESI) initiative is challenging systemic barriers, combating and providing essential support to marginalized groups. In Gombe State, our interventions have significantly improved #accessibility within government ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs). By empowering citizens and civil society organizations through the Citizens' Charter of Demand, we've driven the installation of more ramps ♿ and toilets facilities 🚻 in government buildings.    Additionally, State2State-supported Inclusive Procurement Checklist for MDAs has prioritized women-owned businesses, promoting economic equality and women's empowerment.     To learn more, visit: https://lnkd.in/edaVnztF    #State2State #Inclusion #Empowerment

Imagine the streets of Odisha, India, where the quiet hum of electric rickshaws signals more than just cleaner transportation—and stand as symbols of resilience and transformation. Behind the wheel are individuals who have faced barriers of societal rejection and inequality. Today, they are rewriting narratives, proving that dignity and purpose can pave the way for lasting change. Each ride they provide is a step toward a more inclusive and sustainable future. Stories like these are not just moments of impact—they are blueprints for building ecosystems of empowerment. Because when we create opportunities for the marginalized, we don’t just uplift individuals; we elevate entire communities and reaffirm our shared humanity. #Inclusion #Sustainability #HerSuccessStories