The Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, Sashi Kiran, recently addressed Parliament on Fiji’s inaugural nationwide observance of the International Day of the Girl Child, celebrated on October 11, 2025. This landmark occasion focuses on raising awareness of the challenges faced by girls, applauding their achievements, and encouraging their active involvement in leadership and development initiatives.
In her impactful speech, Kiran emphasized the vital role girls play in Fiji today, stating, “It is a special day and reminds us that our girls are not waiting to become Fiji’s future; they are already shaping our present.” Her remarks highlighted the need for society to support and invest in girls, acknowledging their capacity to contribute meaningfully to the community.
The Minister presented staggering statistics that underscore the realities faced by girls in Fiji, including issues such as teenage pregnancies, gender-based violence, and impediments to education. In the first half of 2024, eight girls under the age of 15 became mothers, while a total of 481 girls aged 15 to 19 gave birth. Between 2020 and 2024, over 7,283 crimes were reported against children, with 70 percent of those cases, primarily sexual offenses, affecting girls. “These numbers are not acceptable,” Kiran asserted, emphasizing the need for a safer environment for every child.
To promote community understanding, the Ministry organized various events in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and other stakeholders across Fiji. Activities took place in several divisions, including celebrations at Nakavika Primary School and initiatives in the Northern Division. In the Eastern Division, outreach programs were held in 27 villages in Kadavu, while Koroipita’s Western Division hosted empowerment sessions focusing on topics like leadership, teenage pregnancy, and sports inclusion, culminating in oratory contests that provided a platform for young girls to share their experiences and resilience.
Kiran highlighted education as the most potent tool for empowerment, but voiced concern over high dropout rates among girls, particularly in rural areas. Current enrollment statistics reveal that 73,295 girls are in primary school, compared to 79,240 boys, with retention rates further declining at higher educational levels.
The Coalition Government is responding by enhancing child protection systems and ensuring girls have access to essential education and health services. Initiatives include investments in family and community counseling, safety and leadership programs in schools, and better collaboration among police, health professionals, and educational institutions to swiftly address instances of abuse.
In a progressive move, Kiran announced ongoing consultations with the Ministry of Education to formally include the International Day of the Girl Child in Fiji’s national educational calendar. She emphasized, “Our message is simple; every Fijian girl matters and deserves protection and opportunity to grow to her full potential.”
This comprehensive agenda not only seeks to mitigate the vulnerabilities faced by young girls but also aims to cultivate a culture that recognizes and celebrates their contributions. The coalition’s initiatives symbolize a hopeful future in which girls in Fiji can flourish, encouraging a society committed to upholding their rights and nurturing their potential.