To test the gender-equality ‘temperature’ in South Africa, the News spoke to those people who say what they think without holding back: our children.

• Gosego Modise, 12, in Grade 6
Q: Is it okay if dads stay home and look after the house and children, and the moms go to work?
A: Yes because in the past they were told that they mainly belong in the kitchen. But my mom still cooks better.

• Blake Nieman, 8, in Grade 2
Q: Can a woman be the president of the country?
A: I don’t know. A woman will make a good president. She will change the world into a better place.

• Jenevieve Claassen, 9, in Grade 3
Q: Who is the ‘boss’ in your house?
A: Definitely my mother. When I ask my dad he always says go ask the boss.

• Rafaella Sateriou, 11, in Grade 6
Q: Who have it better in South Africa, men or women?
A: Women have it better because they know how to do things properly. They get things done and they can stand pain.