Gender equality starts at home, says Labasa nurse director

Girls and boys in Fiji should be treated equally, Labasa Hospital Director of Nursing Suman Lata said during International Women’s Day celebrations at the Then India Sanmarga Ikya (TISI) Sangam College of Nursing campus in Labasa yesterday.

Ms Lata said learning begins at home, with mothers playing a key role in shaping values and attitudes.

She described the day as an opportunity to celebrate the achievements and milestones of women.

“Violence against women and children still happens around the world. It is crucial for us as women to make this world a better place for other women,” she said.

She added that International Women’s Day was a time to honour women and take pride in being a woman.

Ms Lata said in some parts of Fiji, boys were often given more privileges than girls.

“We should treat boys and girls equally. In today’s generation, girls can take care of their families, be educated, and be financially independent, just like boys,” she said.

She noted that many senior leadership positions in Fiji were still held by men and urged parents to educate their daughters so they could help close this gap.

Ms Lata also highlighted the importance of financial independence for women.

“If we don’t give our daughters education, values, and self-reliance, how will they survive in the future?” she said.

She encouraged women to take part in community activities and clubs, even if they did not work outside the home, saying these opportunities allowed them to contribute to society and develop new skills.