The GAD Deepening Session was implemented under Project GRACE Phase 2 to provide officers and members of micro-agricultural cooperatives with a more advanced and practical understanding of Gender and Development (GAD). Building on the awareness activities conducted during Phase 1, the session focused on helping participants integrate gender perspectives into cooperative planning and operations.

The training addressed challenges faced by cooperatives in developing effective and context-specific GAD Plans, which were often caused by limited technical knowledge, practical experience, and support. Through participatory and activity-based learning, participants strengthened their understanding of GAD policies, principles, and tools, including the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) gender assessment framework. Although immediate outputs were limited, the session laid a strong foundation for future gender-responsive planning. Insights and feedback gathered will guide the development of Project GRACE Phase 3, which will focus on research-based assessments of cooperatives’ gender needs.