The Republic of Fiji Navy personnel were reminded on the importance of gender during the awareness program at the Togalevu Naval Base on Thursday 11 July 2019.
The Fiji Navy Division Legal Officer, Lieutenant Commander Silipa Kuboubola led the team to the Republic of Fiji Navy Ship ‘Viti’ (RFNS Viti) at Togalevu to educate newly enlisted Navy personnel on gender issues. The awareness team consisted of Legal Officer, Sub-Lieutenant Alivereti Yauvoli of the Republic of Fiji Navy and the Republic of Fiji Military Forces Human Resources Management Staff Officer Recruitment and Enlistment, Captain Nanise Ralagi.
Sub-Lieutenant Alfred Yauvoli stated that the purpose of the awareness program was to ensure that members of the Republic of Fiji Navy understand and observe Navy and RFMF doctrines regarding the issue. “The purpose of conducting the gender awareness program is to educate our male and female sailors on the policies and also the changes that occurs internationally” he said. He added that it was important to educate them on gender issues which has brought changes that has an influence on peacekeeping and navy operations in the sea.
Sub-Lieutenant Yauvoli stated that observing ‘gender’ policy is a new issue to the Republic of Fiji Navy as it has been a male dominated institution since its establishment. The gender awareness program was organized to brighten their views on the issues and guide them from future breach of policies.
Lieutenant Apenisa Cavuilati later expressed his appreciation for the gender awareness program. “We appreciate the conduct of the awareness program due to the changes that is currently happening in the division in regards to the enlistment of female sailors”, he said. He added that every naval individual has to change and improve their mind set before female started joining them at sea operations next month or currently at land.
Representatives from the National Fire Authority were also present at the awareness program.
