Fiji Roads Authority trains senior staff on preventing workplace abuse

Senior management at the Fiji Roads Authority (FRA) has completed intensive training to bolster efforts against sexual exploitation, abuse, and harassment in the workplace. This five-day program, held from June 15 to 19, brought together leaders and staff at the Fiji Learning Institute for Public Service.

The initiative, supported by the Australian Government through its Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific, aimed to strengthen awareness and response systems. Facilitated by Tessa Walsh and Tevita Seruilumi from evawtech, the sessions focused on building leadership capacity to prevent and respond to gender-based violence within FRA operations. Key areas included procurement obligations, social safeguards, and SEAH complaint-handling and resolution processes. Specialized induction sessions for board members, staff, and contractors were also conducted to reinforce safeguarding responsibilities.

FRA Chief Executive Officer Apisai Ketenilagi described the training as an eye-opener, particularly for senior male leaders and staff. Participants gained a clearer understanding of gender-based violence, safeguarding measures, and the distinction between gender attributes, privileges, and opportunities. The program also emphasized monitoring contractor compliance with SEAH risk mitigation and improving complaint management systems.

This initiative underscores FRA's commitment to gender equality and robust safeguarding, ensuring all road sector work occurs in a safe and respectful environment. The training reflects a proactive approach to creating a workplace culture that prioritizes the well-being and respect of all employees.

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the training was an eye-opener for many participants. He said it was particularly significant for males in senior leadership positions, and staff were able to distinguish between gender attributes, privileges, and opportunities. He also said they gained a clearer understanding of gender-based violence and safeguarding measures.