As International Women’s Day approaches this weekend, Fiji’s Minister for Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations Agni Deo Singh is encouraging citizens to honor and value women’s contributions every day of the year. Singh emphasized the vital role women play in shaping families and communities, stating that their impact should not be confined to the celebrations of this special day.
He underlined that empowering women creates significant and lasting benefits that resonate through generations. Singing praises to the strength of women, he quoted, “As the saying goes, educate a boy, and you educate an individual, but educate and empower a girl, and you uplift an entire family.” This statement underscores the transformative effect of investing in women’s education and empowerment.
The minister also recognized the relentless sacrifices many women make daily, often without receiving the acknowledgment they deserve. He detailed the demanding routines of women in traditional Fijian households, which typically start before dawn and extend late into the night. These women manage a wide array of responsibilities, from preparing meals and getting children ready for school to maintaining the household and balancing work commitments. According to Singh, women are the backbone of family life, being the first to rise in the morning and the last to rest at night, ensuring that everyone in the household is taken care of.
Despite their crucial contributions, much of the work women do tends to go unnoticed and unappreciated. While International Women’s Day serves as a valuable opportunity to celebrate these contributions, Singh advocates for a culture of recognition that extends beyond a single day, encouraging a continual appreciation for women’s efforts in every domain of life. This perspective aims to foster a more equitable and supportive environment for women in Fiji and beyond, emphasizing their essential role in society.