50 youth learn about gender rights and equality

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries in Sabama, Papua New Guinea, brought together 50 participants for a session on gender-based violence held on March 8 at the Mary Help of Christians Parish. The session, led by Lucy Lavu, family life coordinator at the Archdiocese of Port Moresby, celebrated International Women’s Day.

The session aimed to educate youth on gender rights and equality. Lavu said, “It is important to understand ourselves to build better relationships.” She, along with her husband John, explained the differences between gender-based violence and domestic violence, as well as concepts of equality and equity. They also discussed the legal consequences of offenses.

Father Ambrose Pereira, parish priest, noted, “Our young people must be informed about the importance of respecting and positively engaging with all individuals, especially women and girls.” Another similar session is planned, along with additional youth empowerment workshops.

Salesian missionaries in the country provide primary and secondary education, as well as technical skills training to prepare youth for the workforce. Missionaries also help to ensure that basic needs like shelter, food and water are met so students are able to focus on their studies.

Papua New Guinea has a population of approximately 7.5 million people. It is a resource-rich country with oil, gas and gold reserves, as well as fertile land capable of producing high crop yields. Despite this, an estimated 40% of Papua New Guineans live below the poverty line of $1.25 per day, according to the World Bank.

Close to 50% of adults are illiterate and 25% of children are unable to attend school in Papua New Guinea. Part of the problem with getting to school, work and hospitals has to do with the country’s infrastructure. In rural areas, where nearly 88% of the population resides, there are few roads or means of transportation to get to schools or places of employment.

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Sources:

ANS Photo (usage permissions and guidelines must be requested from ANS)

ANS – Papua New Guinea – Women and Girls: Rights, Equality, and Empowerment

Salesian Missions – Papua New Guinea

World Bank – Papua New Guinea Poverty