While substantial progress has been made toward universal primary education—over two-thirds of countries have achieved gender parity in primary school enrollment—significant gaps persist. In low-income countries, only 78% of girls are enrolled in primary school, compared to a global average of 88%. The disparity widens at the secondary level, where girls’ enrollment in low-income countries is just 31%, far below the global average of 66%.

School leaders are uniquely positioned to promote gender equity, not only within their schools but across their communities. Through policy-making, inclusive teaching practices, and meaningful collaboration with families and communities, they can help create safe and equitable learning environments for all students.

Brave Leadership, Safe Schools is a free resource set—including a storybook, guidebook and rubric—designed to support school leaders in this work. Featuring real-life stories from the Global South, it offer practical activities, facilitation tips, and inspiring narratives that bring gender equity to life.

Resources are also available in Spanish.

For the past five years, we’ve been committed to advancing gender equity in schools by strengthening school leadership. Our work focuses on fostering gender-responsive leadership, enhancing female representation in leadership roles, and creating spaces for collective learning and dialogue. 

Click here to learn more about our initiatives.