Gender Equality in P.E. Classes in Uganda

This study was carried out in 5 primary schools in Uganda (Africa). It was about gender equality and equity in Physical Education classes with emphasis on the experiences of girls. The study used participant observation interviews and document analysis as research techniques. It was revealed that girls are discriminated harassed dominated and sometimes beaten by both boys and teachers. The boys who also do not conform to ‘ideal’ forms of masculinity are also discriminated against. Generally the boys are favoured by teachers and the curriculum that is dominated by ball games at upper primary. Both boys and girls are in a struggle for identity and the latter is also affected by their socio-economic backgrounds. Unfortunately both the pupils and the teachers are tied up by traditional/cultural gender stereotypes. So girls and boys (who do not conform to ideal forms of masculinity) get limited study experiences and don’t enjoy physical competency in the Physical Education Classes in Uganda.