Efforts are underway to encourage more Pacific women to enter careers in science and energy, but these initiatives must confront entrenched gender norms that continue to restrict their choices, according to Tara Chetty, Deputy Director of the Human Rights and Social Development Division at the Pacific Community (SPC). Chetty emphasizes that not only is it vital to increase girls’ participation in these fields, but it is also crucial to address the underlying societal expectations that obstruct their progress.
“Many of the barriers existing in our communities that prevent girls from becoming leaders in science are rooted in the same problematic social norms that enable violence against women and gender-based violence,” Chetty stated. She pointed to strong regional commitments to gender equality, such as the Pacific Leaders’ Gender Equality Declaration and the Pacific Platform for Action, which all related governments have endorsed. However, she stressed that translating these commitments into real change demands community-specific strategies.
Chetty advocated for substantial investment in educational interventions that cater to the unique cultures of the Pacific. This includes revising school curricula to promote inclusiveness and foster discussions about fairness and equality grounded in Pacific cultural narratives. She identified the importance of scholarships, mentorship programs, and ensuring safe, equitable workplaces, asserting these factors would benefit the entire community.
Furthermore, Chetty’s insights resonate with previous discussions on gender equality in the energy sector, highlighting similar challenges faced by women. For instance, Helle Buchhave, a Senior Social Development Specialist at the World Bank, noted that over half a million working-age women in the Pacific remain unemployed, underscoring a significant opportunity cost for economic growth. She indicated that a more inclusive workforce could lead to a 22% increase in GDP per capita, emphasizing the importance of women’s roles in the economy.
Overall, the ongoing commitment to empower women in traditionally male-dominated fields like science and engineering is crucial, as it not only promotes gender equality but also fosters economic development in the Pacific region. This dual approach of enhancing educational frameworks while addressing harmful social norms creates a hopeful path toward achieving true gender parity and unlocking the full potential of Pacific women.
Leave a comment