What is Gender Parity Index (GPI) ratio?
What is Gender Parity Index (GPI) ratio?
(a) male to female ratio
(b) female to male ratio
(c) male and female ratio
(d) None ratio
✅ Correct option: (b) female to male ratio
Explanation (200+ words)
The Gender Parity Index (GPI) is a key education indicator used internationally by UNESCO, UNICEF, and national education authorities to measure gender equality in education. GPI is defined as the ratio of female participation to male participation in education, usually calculated using enrollment rates such as GER or NER.
A GPI value of 1.0 indicates perfect gender parity, meaning equal participation of girls and boys. A value less than 1.0 shows disadvantage for females, while a value greater than 1.0 indicates disadvantage for males. In Pakistan, GPI values have traditionally been below 1.0, especially in rural areas, reflecting social, cultural, and economic barriers to girls’ education.
For PPSC examinations, this definition is very important because GPI-related MCQs frequently test whether candidates understand the direction of the ratio (female ÷ male), not the reverse. Misunderstanding this often leads to incorrect answers.
10 PPSC-Relevant Facts
- GPI = Female ÷ Male
- Used by UNESCO
- Measures gender equality
- Ideal value = 1.0
- <1 means female disadvantage
- Used with GER and NER
- Important SDG indicator
- Rural GPI usually lower
- Repeated PPSC MCQ
1 means male disadvantage