DoWH Observed National Women’s Day

National Women’s Day is observed annually on 24 March. The DoWH GESI Unit organised this year’s event in collaboration with the Department of Personnel Management’s GESI Branch. The celebration was held under the international theme “Give to Gain” and the DoWH sub-theme “Celebrating and Promoting DoWH Women’s Contributions to the Development of Roads, Bridges, and Building Infrastructure.”

The theme “Give to Gain” reminds us that progress is not accidental but the result of commitment, sacrifice, and the willingness to contribute meaningfully to a shared vision. In our context, it reflects the dedication of women who continue to give their skills, knowledge, and leadership toward building and maintaining the critical infrastructure that supports our nation. Across Papua New Guinea, the work we do as a Department connects people, drives economic growth, and improves lives. Today, we acknowledge that women are a vital part of this journey not only as participants, but as leaders, innovators, and agents of change in the development of roads, bridges, and building infrastructure.

Deputy Secretary for Corporate Services, Mr. Joshua Toko, in his opening remarks, stated:

“It is a great honour to officially open today’s program as we come together to recognise and celebrate the invaluable contributions of women within the Department of Works and Highways”.

Acting Deputy Secretary for Network, Planning, Design & Standards, Mr. Brian Alois, highlighted the importance of supporting female officers in the department. He encouraged all female staff that it is time to uproot old mindsets and fully embrace both the international theme, “Give to Gain,” and the department’s theme: ‘Celebrating and Promoting DoWH Women’s Contributions to the Development of Roads, Bridges, and Building Infrastructure.’ He also explained the significance of the event’s three colours: purple for justice and dignity, green for hope and growth, and white for purity.

In the workplace context, particularly within the government and infrastructure sector, giving your best effort, mentoring others, and taking on leadership roles not only fosters personal growth but also brings recognition and creates a lasting, positive impact on your team, colleagues, community and the nation.

Secretary for Works and Highways, Mr. Gibson Holemba, in his keynote address, stated:

“It is an honour and privilege to stand before you today as we commemorate National Women’s Day and recognise the outstanding contributions of women within the Department of Works and Highways”.

Today, I want to highlight one of Papua New Guinea’s remarkable women, Hilan Pora, who was a pioneer in PNG politics, serving as one of the first female interpreters for the House of Assembly before independence. She translated debates into Tok Pisin and Motu, helping leaders and the public participate fully in political discussions. She was also part of the original “Bully Beef Club”, which later became the Pangu Pati and paved the way for PNG’s independence.

Traditionally, the infrastructure sector has been dominated by men. But times are changing. Today, Women are not just participants; they are leading, innovating, and shaping decisions that drive national development. It’s an exciting transformation that is making a real impact across the industry. He acknowledged all female Principal Engineers, Engineers, the Five (5) Assistant Secretaries, Team Leaders, Administration officers, and emphasised that their contributions in design, project sites, procurement, policy, or administrative roles are appreciated and valued. He applauded them that, "your works are essential to the success of the Department and the nation's development."

Secretary also reaffirmed the Department’s commitment to promoting gender equity by ensuring a safer workplace, and creating pathways for women’s professional growth. This includes strengthening Gender, Equity and Social Inclusion (GESI) Initiatives, addressing challenges such as workplace discrimination and gender-based violence, and fostering an environment where all officers feel respected, valued, and empowered. He emphasised that achieving this vision requires a collective effort. He encouraged everyone to continue to support each other, through mentoring of young professionals, and create an inclusive environment where women can thrive.

In closing, he encouraged female staff to always seek opportunities for improvement, reminding them that the only person they can truly change is themselves and that small daily improvements matter. He expressed his appreciation to all female staff for their dedication and service, and extended his warm wishes: “Happy National Women’s Day. God bless you all.

The day ended with a Panel Discussion, which:

• Highlighted the experiences and contributions of female officers in DoWH

• Identified GESI (Gender Equity & Social Inclusion) and GBV (Gender-Based Violence) challenges

• Explored practical strategies to strengthen a safe, inclusive workplace

• Identified clear training and career development pathways for women

• Generated actionable recommendations for DoWH leadership