During the International Day of the Girl Child observance at Nakavika Primary School in the Namosi highlands, Sashi Kiran, Fiji’s Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, delivered a compelling address emphasizing the urgent need to protect and promote girls’ rights in society. The event commemorated the bravery, resilience, and leadership of girls, resonating with the United Nations theme, “The Girl I Am, The Change I Lead: Girls on the Frontlines of Crisis.”
Kiran passionately encouraged girls to embrace their identities and pursue their aspirations through hard work and kindness. She praised the village’s commitment to education, particularly the establishment of the local school in 2003, which has significantly improved educational access for girls and reduced the burden of long journeys to distant schools.
In her address, Kiran reaffirmed the government’s dedication to child protection and gender equality, highlighting vital initiatives such as the Fiji Child Welfare Act and the National Child Safeguarding Policy. These frameworks aim to create a secure environment for girls, free from violence and rich in opportunities.
Moreover, Kiran expressed her gratitude to parents, teachers, and community leaders for their roles in supporting girls’ education and ensuring equal opportunities. This acknowledgment of community involvement echoes her broader advocacy against gender inequality, a theme she has also emphasized in discussions around International Women’s Day.
The Minister’s message addresses the ongoing challenges in Fiji related to gender equality, particularly affecting women and girls from marginalized communities. Kiran has remained a steadfast advocate for enhancing the roles of women and girls in all sectors, underlining that achieving gender equality requires collaborative efforts that include men and boys.
Kiran’s call to action not only underscores the significance of supporting and empowering girls but also presents an optimistic vision for Fiji—one where every girl can flourish and attain her full potential. By nurturing robust communities that uphold equality and justice, Fiji moves closer to realizing a more inclusive and equitable society for all.