Gender Equality Training and Awareness among Students in Higher Education Institutions in Tamil Nadu

Gender equality is an important component of inclusive higher education, yet the extent to which students are exposed to gender-related education and training remains an important empirical question. This study examines whether gender equality is receiving sufficient attention in higher education institutions, drawing evidence from seven selected universities in Tamil Nadu, India. A quantitative, cross-sectional, descriptive and analytical research design was adopted using primary data collected through a structured interview schedule. The study included 429 postgraduate students enrolled in Arts and Science programmes across the selected universities. Descriptive statistics, cross-tabulation and Pearson’s chi-square tests of independence were employed to assess students’ reported exposure to introductory gender training, participation in gender-related training or courses during the preceding two years, current enrolment in gender-related courses, and perceptions of the availability of gender equality initiatives in the curriculum. The findings revealed that 57.8% of respondents had not received introductory training or orientation on gender issues, while 73.0% had not participated in gender-related training or courses during the previous two years.