President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has called to strengthen efforts to create an inclusive environment where women have equitable opportunities as policymakers and in leadership roles. He made the remarks while speaking at the official function to mark International Women's Day.
Speaking at the event, President Solih highlighted the administration's Gender Equality Action Plan, which was unveiled in 2022, which seeks to increase the participation of girls and women in all sectors and ensure equal consideration to protect the interests of men and women in the decision-making process. He added that guidelines are in place in all government offices and institutions that reflect the importance of ensuring equity and equality, and called on them to take steps immediately to ensure the implementation of those policies.
Additionally, President Solih said that the theme of this year’s International Women’s Day, on the use of innovation and technology for gender equality, aims to celebrate the achievements of girls and women in promoting innovative technology and digital education. He added that the administration's Strategic Action Plan (SAP) focuses on economic diversification, information and communication technologies (ICT), and sub-sectors, including gender equality. He also noted that the administration introduced equal pay for men and women in sports and accommodated children under the age of two and a guardian to accompany athletes during training camps abroad.
Furthermore, President Solih highlighted the steps taken by the administration to encourage working mothers and end barriers to their employment. As such, he said that child-friendly spaces are being dedicated in government offices and institutions, while some agencies have introduced flexible hours for working mothers. In conclusion, he urged for a whole-of-society approach to promoting and protecting women's rights and empowering them to take on leadership roles in all sectors.
At the function, President Solih presented the Rehendhi Award 2023 to the winners, and the First Lady presented the winners with brooches. In addition, Vice President Faisal Naseem launched the Madhadhugaaru mobile phone application at the function, during which the pilot episode of the Amaze video series was also screened.