Panel focuses on empowerment

WHEN women are economically empowered, families and economies flourish, said University of the South Pacific vice-chancellor Professor Pal Ahluwalia while addressing the Pacific Women in Power panel discussion at the USP Laucala Campus on Tuesday.

The topic for the panel discussion was “The future of work: Women can lead the Pacific’s power transition”.

“Your education and subsequent careers contribute to this growth,” Prof Ahluwalia said.

“The energy sector needs your leadership. From boardrooms to research labs, your perspectives matter. Redefine norms and inspire generations to come.”

He said gender diverse teams drive innovation.

“We know this to be true. Your unique viewpoints spark creativity. Imagine a solar-powered Pacific, fueled not only by sunlight but also by your ingenuity, the vice-chancellor said.

“The final interconnected theme I would like to highlight, is the transformative power of collaboration.

“Our collaboration today extends beyond these walls. We stand alongside the World Bank, the Pacific Power Association, and the Pacific Community (SPC).

“Together, we amplify the impact for Pacific societies free of poverty on a livable planet.

“Students, you must embrace collaboration across disciplines.

“Engineers, economists, environmentalists all forge connections throughout their careers. Solutions emerge at the intersection of knowledge.

“Industry experts, please mentor our students, and make sure our female and male students are given equal opportunities to contribute to the energy sector.

“Share your experiences, guide their paths, and nurture their potential. Mentorship bridges theory and practice.”