Moving forward: Challenges and opportunities for Fijian women studying in higher education in Fiji

Abstract

Improved access and quality in education and addressing gender inequality are two Sustainable Development Goals that are critical for addressing wider development issues. These issues are important in Fiji and other Pacific nations, that have long been working to improve higher education in their national development plans. The objective of this research is to investigate the challenges and opportunities of Fijian women, in all their diversities, who are studying in institutions of higher education in Fiji. The focus of this research is two-fold: to provide insight into social and cultural experiences affecting diverse groups of marginalized women seeking access to higher education and employment; and to examine the value of education policies. The aim is to understand the intersections of gender norms, cultural considerations and socio-economic practices in education and employment for women. The primary research question is: What do the experiences of women in all their diversities, in higher education in Fiji, tell us about gendered power relations? My approach will be primarily framed by the work of Naila Kabeer's (2010) notion of intersecting inequalities. This notion allows for understanding how women from different backgrounds and positionalities, based on, for instance, their ethnicity, class and geographical location, access or face barriers to higher education and employment opportunities. The impetus behind this research emerges from concerns that women are an underrepresented group in higher positions in employment and decision-making positions in politics and commerce in the Pacific, including, Fiji. Findings point to varied socio-economic and geographical barriers that women face in accessing education. Moreover, complex gendered power relations and practices are underpinned by intersecting dimensions including age and status. These power relations limit women's participation in decision making in employment and education, which influences future success in achieving employment in higher positions.