Women, girls education grant themes launched
YOUNG women and girls across Fiji can once again apply for financial assistance for their education with the announcement of the themes for this year’s Westpac Women and Girls Education Grant program.
Each year Westpac announces the competition topics on International Women’s Day, giving time for students to begin working on their poster, essay or video submissions ahead of the due date on June 30.
This year primary school participants are being asked to draw a poster of “a big idea that will help bring equal treatment for boys and girls”. The poster must be A4 size and must have a short, written description of the poster in no more than 200 words.
Secondary school participants will need to write a 500-word essay on the theme “how can innovation in schools help create a gender equal future”.
Tertiary/adult learners are expected to write an essay on the topic “We must crack the cultural, economic and social codes and behaviours that entrench inequality in Fiji” with a limit of 750 words.
We’re so proud of the students who have come through this program – more than 150 women and girls over the past decade – Shane Smith
Last year saw a total of 30 winners across three categories, with primary school, secondary school and tertiary students winning $500, $1500 and $2500 respectively.
Westpac chief executive Shane Smith said: “We’re so proud of the students who have come through this program — more than 150 women and girls over the past decade.
“The financial assistance gives women, girls and their families the boost they need to buy equipment, school supplies or to pay tuition fees. It’s a small contribution towards the very bright futures we know these bright scholars will have.”
The competition is open to women and girls who are Fiji citizens living in Fiji. Entries can be lodged online from April 2023.