1.

Changing Attitudes

   
1.1 Given the significant impact of sex stereotypes on women's self-esteem and

confidence, it is essential that information on career opportunities, new and emerging occupations, and the permanence of women's participation in the work force be provided to society as a whole. Governments will therefore foster partnerships with the private and voluntary sectors to advance women's economic equality.

   
1.2 To ensure cooperation among all participants in this process, governments
  will undertake a coordinated series of public education initiatives designed to change stereotypical attitudes about women's role in the work force.
   
2. Educational and Training Programs
   
2.1 Counselling
  • All counselling will be non-sexist, free from prejudice and racial discrimination and reflective of the changing nature of the modern labour market.

  • Counselors will make a special effort to educate female students on the importance of mathematics and science training in determining future career options.

  • Counselling services will be available as part of any training program.
2.2 Initiatives in Non-Traditional Areas
  • Initiatives will be undertaken to increase the number of women in apprenticeship programs. Business and organized labour will be encouraged to establish new positions and to support the involvement of women in apprenticeships.

  • The number of women in training programs for non-traditional jobs, including managerial, professional and decision-making positions, will be increased through an aggressive marketing and information campaign aimed at new candidates.
2.3 The Learning Environment
  • Female instructors will be appointed in non-traditional areas wherever possible.

  • Instructors, counselors, administrators and other academic staff will be made more aware of the barriers that women face in the workplace and will be encouraged to assist women to consider a full range of occupations in planning a career.

  • Governments will encourage educational institutions to increase the representation of women in senior management and decision-making positions.
2.4 Training Programs and Aids
  • Training program materials and resources will reflect the cultural background as well as the economic circumstances of women.

  • Educational institutions will provide some combination of catch-up courses, foundation courses, pre-trade courses and distance education to improve women's access to training.
3. Access to Training
   
3.1 Governments will ensure that funding for child care expenses, training allowances, accommodation allowances and transportation costs for trainees is adequate to enable women to undertake training.


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