Today, the Deputy Prime Minister, Minister for Education, Tourism and Civil Aviation, Hon. Viliame Gavoka together with the Acting Counsellor Ms. Fleur Calcutt from Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) launched the 2nd cohort of the Women In School Leadership (WISL) Program 2024 at the Pearl Resort, Pacific Harbour.
“Today, we gather to celebrate International Women’s Day and honor the incredible achievements and contributions of women across the globe. As we come together to reflect on the progress we have made towards gender equality, it is important to acknowledge the work that still needs to be done to ensure that all women have the opportunity to fulfill their potential and live their lives free from discrimination and violence,” said Hon. Gavoka.
“It gives me immense pleasure to launch the Women in Leadership Program 2024 during the week of International Women’s Day. The International Women’s Day sanctioned by the United Nations with the theme: Invest in Women – Accelerate Progress.”
The DPM stressed that this year’s theme for International Women’s Day is focused on challenging gender stereotypes and bias in order to create a more inclusive and equal world for all. It is crucial that we continue to advocate for the rights of women and girls, and work towards dismantling the barriers that prevent them from reaching their full potential.
Hon. Gavoka conveyed his heartfelt gratitude towards the government of Australia and other education partners for the support for equity in school leadership through the ‘vuvale’ partnership.
“To the women who are present here today, you are the 2nd cohort that will undergo this extensive leadership training over a period of 6 months. If the governments have recognized your potential and you are being chosen for this training, it’s also time that you use this opportunity to reflect on the journey you have taken as women in the education sector.”
While addressing the participants at the launch, Hon. Gavoka shared the story of Ruth from the Bible.
“Allow me to provide you with an example of such women who had leadership qualities and Ruth is a well-known woman among the few women in biblical times. She was a woman who put others first and made sacrifices. It was this sacrifice that she was blessed whereby it was through her lineage that Jesus was born into. If we have more Ruths in the Ministry of Education, where you as potential leaders make sacrifices for the future of our children, you will surely receive blessings as well.”
“In Fiji, we have had women such as, Imrana Jalal, Late Amelia Rokotuivuna, late Ms. Taufa Vakatale and many others who invested in raising the status of women in all spheres of nation building.”
“If there are gaps at decision making level then be assertive to contribute positively to fill the void. As a champion of equity myself, I challenge you to take ownership of this training opportunity and establish a platform to network with other women leaders to make a difference in the education landscape.”
“I encourage each and every woman in this room, to remind yourselves that you are the chosen few who have been called because of your resilient character that will be polished through this school women leadership program so you can shine and contribute positively to nation building,” stated Hon. Gavoka.
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