I agree with the overall sentiment, but the idea of males and females going through life in exactly the same manner (without an implied role) is quite novel in human history. There are likely unsolved problems here. That females seem to openly suggest being educated apart from males, after extensive lobbying to the opposite effect, is an almost humorous illustration.

I think this has more to do with the fact that there are (generally speaking) only two sexes. So if we talk about one lagging behind, then it is obvious that we are comparing one to the other. On the other hand, if you were to speak about underachievement of the Hmong immigrants in the US, the conversation usually gravitates towards how to help narrow the gap, etc.

If you can show there is x group that has it worse, you can usually get funding/money to help fix the problem.

It's all about framing. And while I applaud the idea of not bucketting people, it's not how the world operates. It's easier to get money to feed children than it is adults, or just, 'the hungry'.