Schools from around the Central Division were part of the Violence against Women and Girls symposium that was held at St Joseph Secondary School in Suva.
The symposium was on the margins of International Women’s Day celebration.
The Youth and Sports permanent secretary, Meli Nacuva officially opened the symposium. Students who were part of the program did activities based on the theme “Building Better Together Through S-P-I-R-I-T! (Speak, Protect, Inspire, Respect, Inform – TODAY!)”.
Mr Nacuva during his speech said that education play a vital role in challenging harmful attitudes and behaviours that perpetuate violence against women and girls.
“It is through education that we can promote gender equality and empower women and girls to reach their full potential,” he said.
“As such, we provide inclusive and equitable quality education for all, and this includes addressing the barriers and challenges that prevent women and girls from fully participating and succeeding in education.
“Through our education system, we aim to empower young women and girls to become leaders and change-makers in our society.
“We are committed to providing them with the opportunities and support they need to succeed in their academic and personal pursuits.”
He also highlighted that the National Action Plan on Violence Against Women and Girls, provides a framework to work collaboratively towards creating a safer and more equitable society for all.
“Our education system plays a central role in bringing about positive change in this area, and we are committed to implementing the strategies outlined in the plan to ensure the safety and well-being of women and girls in Fiji.”
More than 10 primary and secondary schools were part of the symposium.
