13 recommendations: Gender Equality Commission submits annual report to Speaker  

An annual report containing recommendations that can improve the lives of men and women in the country was on Monday submitted to the Speaker of the National Assembly Manzoor Nadir.

The report of the Women and Gender Equality Commission for the period 2021-2022 has 13 gender-related issues listed. The Commission’s chairperson, Indranie Chandarpal, handed over the report at the Parliament Buildings, Brickdam, where she said it is imperative that the recommendations are prioritised.

“For this period, we have identified 13 issues which we believe are very important for the National Assembly

“….we believe it is imperative that we present the report with the recommendations but it should not be left to accumulate dust. The Parliament should be able to look at the report, look at the recommendations, and then give guidance to the requisite Commission,” Chandarpal said.

Among the recommendations mentioned is the need for access to data on women’s health, Health and Family Life education in schools, access to local content opportunities for rural communities and more career opportunities for women in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).

Chandarpal said the Commission worked to uphold its constitutional mandate by overcoming challenges, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, to compile and submit its national report.

Chandarpal said it is the Commission’s hope that a special committee is formed to oversee whether recommendations can evolve into policy measures.

Responding to the Chairperson, Mr Nadir agreed that this report is significant for better responding to societal needs and committed to having it tabled in Parliament as soon as possible.

“This is not a mechanical motion we are going through, this is significant work in terms of building strengthening, recognising, appreciating, and more particularly understanding the fabric of our society,” Nadir stated.

Chandarpal said the Commission very soon continue its outreaches in Region One and Nine as part of its remaining activities for 2023.