Boys and girls must feel welcome in a safe and secure learning environment. Governments, schools, teachers and students all have a part to play in ensuring that schools are free of gender stereotype and discrimination and provide a gender-sensitive, good-quality education for all Fijian children.
This was highlighted by the Minister for Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation, Hon. Mereseini Vuniwaqa while handing over the Home Economics Equipment to the Navesau Adventist High School in Wainibuka, Tailevu.
While speaking to the teachers and students of Navesau, Minister Vuniwaqa said that education, learning and life skills have no gender.
"The perception we built children today will determine how they will treat each other as adults and therefore, gender equality will be achievable in future".
Minister Vuniwaqa mentioned that most people think that Home Economics subject would be sewing aprons, baking and cooking.
Nevertheless, Home Economics has covered a wide range of studies which includes nutrition, clothing and textiles, personal finance, wellness and consumer issues skills.
"The home economics subject for both boys and girls could help to reduce gender role stereotyping of household tasks and also help prepare boys to be more active participants in domestic work and promote gender equality.
Minister Vuniwaqa added that the Government of Fiji recognises that if the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and targets are to be reached by 2030 with “no one left behind”, it is critical to enhance timely, quality and reliable information about gender equality which would support the formulation of gender responsive policies, programs and budgets.
She also encouraged boys to study Home Economics as this subject teaches life skills that can never be gendered and also help them to do domestic work at their homes and communities.
Seventh Day Adventist Education Director, Ms. Kelera Suka thanked the Ministry for the timely assistance which will empower the students.
"This assistance will help the students in their practical work and will be a mind opener to most of the students as this subject can create employment to them".
The Ministry handed over four burner stove with oven, one blender, five sewing machines, one overlocker and one fire extinguisher to the school.