Gender Sensitization Theory, Discourse, and Application

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 Event-Report:

The PG Department of English, Dwaraka Doss Goverdhan Doss Vaishnav College (Autonomous), Arumbakkam, Chennai, successfully organized a seminar titled “Gender Sensitization: Theory, Discourse, and Application” on 30 January 2026 at 10:00 a.m. The programme was held at Bhasha Sangam and was exclusively organized for MA English students, with the objective of enhancing critical awareness of gender issues through theoretical, discursive, and practical perspectives.

The seminar commenced with a formal welcome extended by the Department of English. The event was organized under the leadership of Dr. J. Praveen Prabhu, Head of the Department of English, with the encouragement and support of the college administration. The institution is led by Capt. Dr. S. Santhosh Baboo, Principal, and Shri Ashok Kumar Mundhra, Secretary, whose guidance continues to promote academic excellence and socially relevant initiatives.

The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Helen Pringle, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, University of New South Wales, Australia. Dr. Pringle is a distinguished academic known for her interdisciplinary work in gender studies, cultural theory, and social discourse. Her presence added immense academic value and international perspective to the seminar.

In her lecture, Dr. Pringle offered an in-depth exploration of gender sensitization as a critical academic and social practice. She began by outlining the theoretical foundations of gender, drawing from feminist theory, cultural studies, and sociological frameworks. She emphasized that gender is not merely a biological category but a socially constructed and culturally mediated concept that influences identity, power relations, and lived experiences.

Moving from theory to discourse, Dr. Pringle examined how language, literature, media, and institutional narratives shape and reinforce gender norms. She highlighted the role of discourse in both sustaining inequality and enabling resistance. Special attention was given to how literary texts, classroom practices, and academic spaces can function as sites for questioning gender stereotypes and promoting inclusivity.

The final segment of the lecture focused on the application of gender sensitization in educational and social contexts. Dr. Pringle stressed the importance of integrating gender-sensitive approaches in pedagogy, curriculum design, and everyday interactions. She encouraged students to become critical thinkers and socially responsible individuals who can translate theory into practice within their academic, professional, and personal lives.

The seminar was highly interactive, with students actively participating in the question-and-answer session. The discussions reflected a strong engagement with contemporary gender issues, including representation, equality, intersectionality, and social justice. Students expressed that the session helped them connect literary theory with real-world social concerns.

The programme was coordinated by Mr. G. M. Prem Kumar, Assistant Professor, PG Department of English, with the active support of student coordinators Vetrivel (I MA) and K. S. Karthiga (II BA), whose efforts ensured the smooth conduct of the event.

The seminar strongly aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 5 (Gender Equality), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions). By fostering awareness and critical engagement with gender issues, the programme contributed meaningfully to the institution’s commitment to inclusive and transformative education.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to the resource person, the college management, the Principal, the Head of the Department, faculty members, and the student participants. Overall, the seminar was a resounding success, enriching students’ academic understanding and reinforcing the importance of gender sensitization in contemporary society.


Outcome of Event:

Students developed a clear conceptual understanding of gender theory and its relevance to literature, language, and society.

The programme encouraged gender-sensitive attitudes and responsible practices, fostering inclusivity, equality, and social awareness among students.

Learners gained the ability to critically analyse gendered discourse in academic texts, media, and everyday communication.










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