The objectives of the training were: to help participants understand different tools and methods that can be used effectively at the household and community level; to enable participants to think about and challenge gender-based bias, stereotypes and norms; to enable participants to apply hands-on tools for gender equality; and to outline different methods that can be applied in women empowerment and gender equality activities.

Topics covered during the four-day training included: laying the groundwork for utilization and applying the Gender Toolkit; discussion of specific tools in AGP2 Gender Toolkit; Gender Balance Tree; and empowering rural women through community participation/conversation.

CDSF National Gender and Leadership Specialist, Meskerem Mulatu and SNNPR CDSF Capacity Development Specialist Sebsibe Teklu co-facilitated the training.

During the sessions, the facilitators used different participatory training techniques such as group discussions, group presentations, role plays, and think-pair-share exercises.

At the end of the sessions, participants prepared an action plan for zonal and special woredas to be implemented until the end of EFY 2012.