The Deputy Prime Minister, Minister for Education, Tourism and Civil Aviation, Hon.Viliame Gavoka together with the Permanent Secretary for Education, Ms Selina Kuruleca officially launched the MOE International Women’s Day Celebrations 2024 and Gender Sensitization Awareness at The Pearl Resort, Pacific Harbour.
During the opening address, Hon. Gavoka stated that the Ministry is grateful for the development of the Fiji National Action Plan Framework to Prevent Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG 2023-2028), as it’s a crucial step towards addressing and eradicating the pervasive issue of gender-based violence in our society.
“As Ministry of Education officials, you should ensure that training is provided to teachers and school management enhancing a conducive learning environments for all students. Rules and regulations to prevent harmful practices such as bullying, harassment, and discrimination should be clearly communicated,” said Hon. Gavoka.
While addressing the audience at the awareness workshop, the DPM elaborated on a recent United Nations (UN) publication which stated that “although women are now more protected by domestic violence laws passed across the region, the Pacific still has twice the global average of violence against women.”
The Permanent Secretary for Education, Ms Selina Kuruleca in her closing remarks pledged the commitment of the Ministry to empower girls and engage boys, work in partnership with schools, communities, technical partners and interest groups to cultivate a culture of respect, compassion, integrity and honesty. “It is critical that as leaders we model this behavior, and remain committed to leaving a positive legacy for our children.”
The Ministry of Education is making an urgent call to all stakeholders to champion the Fiji National Action Plan To Prevent Violence Against All Women and Girls (VAWG 2023-2028).
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