Raymond A. Ayinne, the Communications and Advocacy Manager for AFRIKIDS Ghana, has emphasized that the only distinguishing factor between boys and girls should be their sex, adding that everything else—including capabilities, responsibilities, and opportunities—should be treated equally.
Mr. Ayinne highlighted that the approach to raising children should be consistent regardless of their gender. “As a parent myself, I would raise my daughter the same hard way I would raise my son.”
He believes that both boys and girls should be held to the same standards and expectations, fostering a sense of equal opportunity from a young age. This approach, he explained, not only empowers children but also equips them with the skills needed to navigate a diverse world. One of his key points addressed the traditional roles often assigned to girls, particularly the burdens placed on them in domestic spheres. He noted that the kitchen should not solely be the domain of girls; rather, it is an industry in its own right that involves a complete chain of activities. “We’ve realized that, increasingly, girls are overburdened with the kind of things they do because, you see, the whole kitchen is an industry. It’s a complete chain of activities.”
This reinforces the notion that domestic responsibilities should not be gendered. He underscored that encouraging boys to participate in household tasks, such as cooking, can lead to a more balanced perspective on gender roles and responsibilities.
Mr. Ayinne also stressed the importance of cross-role training, advocating for a parenting style that allows boys to experience tasks typically assigned to girls and vice versa. “To bring about balance—not just balance, mind you—but to bring about cross-role training of your children. Let the boy also have an opportunity to be in the kitchen and do all the things that the girl would normally do. And also, why not let the girl take the goat out, take the cattle out, of course under supervision.”
He believes that such practices can enhance the capabilities of both sexes, ensuring that each child has the opportunity to develop a well-rounded skill set. For instance, boys should be encouraged to engage in activities like cooking, while girls should have the chance to take care of livestock or participate in other traditionally male-dominated tasks. This cross-training, he said, not only cultivates equality but also prepares children for the realities of life, where skills can transcend gender.
The conversation also touched upon societal perceptions regarding the physical beauty of girls and its perceived correlation with their future prospects. Mr. Ayinne challenged this notion, arguing that the focus should not solely be on a girl’s physical appearance but rather on her intellect and abilities. He called on women to nurture a mindset in their daughters that prioritizes intelligence and capability over superficial qualities.
According to him, it is crucial for girls to recognize their potential beyond societal expectations. He encouraged mothers to instill in their daughters the belief that they possess valuable minds and talents, equipping them to pursue any career or ambition without being limited by gender stereotypes. “I wish women would begin to encourage their girls to see first and foremost that they have a head with a lot of good brains and that they can do anything they want to do,” he said to Humul Khrusum Tahiru on the Equal Voices Programme on A1 Radio.
Source: A1Radioonline.com|101.1Mhz|Gifty Eyram Kudiabor|Bolgatanga
