In the progressing discussion of gender-related issues, dialogues often center on the challenges faced
by girls and women, dismissing the light on inequality and advocating for equal opportunities. While
these conversations are crucial, it is equally important to turn our attention to the often-overlooked
struggles faced by the boy child in contemporary society. The plight of the boy child is a
complicated issue that bounds several challenges, from community assumptions and
educational variation to mental health concerns.
Gender-related dialogues are centered on the challenges faced by girls, but it is crucial to recognize
the plight of the boy child. According to current trends, boys encounter several difficulties within
the broader context of gender-related issues. For instance, academically girls are favored and given
priority resulting in boys performing poorly in schools, increasing fear due to strict laws favoring girl
children, and encountering community demands that affect their mental health. These statistics
prove the urgent need to understand and advocate for the challenges facing boys in modern society.
Boys are in difficulties financially especially when reporting to school, especially in comparison to
gender-favoring policies that often favor girls. The inability to afford school fees and personal needs
places boys at a disadvantage, limiting their access to education. Traditional gender norms often
dominate rigid expectations for boys. This can stifle emotional expression and hinder their ability to
seek help when needed. In most schools, boys seem to raise such concerns during school meetings
but their voices are ignored and defied leading to poor correlation between students and teachers.
For instance, government policies aimed at promoting gender equality may unconsciously result in
an imbalance, with an unreasonable focus on supporting girls. While empowering girls is crucial,
neglecting the unique challenges faced by boys can perpetuate disparities. Policymakers need to
adopt inclusive approaches, addressing the distinct needs of both genders. A comprehensive strategy
of ensuring both genders benefit and are fully certified with a given policy that balances both
genders.
Unraveling the plight of the boy child reveals a web of challenges, from community
expectations to educational variation and mental health struggles. To achieve genuine gender
equality, we must recognize and inclusively address the challenges and problems faced by boys.
By nurturing understanding, empathy, and inclusive policies, we can move from traditional to
progressive thinking, ensuring that every child, regardless of their gender, has the opportunity to
navigate a supportive and equitable path toward a brighter future.

Marwa Benedicts,
NAYA Kenya CWCR Youth Advocate- Migori.