PUBLIC ADVISORY – ASPHALT CONCRETE (AC) MILL & FILL WORKS
June 12, 2026
24 June 2026
The Fiji Roads Authority (FRA) senior management has taken a significant step forward in strengthening its commitment to creating a safe and respectful working environment by participating in a targeted 5-day training program on the Prevention of Sexual Exploitation, Abuse, and Harassment (PSEAH). The training, supported by the Australian Government through the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific (AIFFP), was conducted from June 15 to 19, 2026, at the Fiji Learning Institute for Public Service (FLIPS) in Nasese, Suva.
Facilitated by experienced trainers Tessa Walsh and Tevita Seruilumi from evawtech, the program focused on building capacity among FRA leaders and staff to better understand, prevent, and respond to issues related to gender-based violence and safeguarding. The comprehensive training covered vital areas such as procurement obligations, social safeguards, SEAH complaints handling procedures, and effective complaint resolution processes. It also included specialized induction sessions for FRA Board Members, staff, and contractors to embed awareness and best practices across the organization.
The overarching goal of the training was to enhance the performance of the Fiji Roads Sector in preventing sexual exploitation, abuse, and harassment, ensuring that all operational activities; whether in capital works or maintenance are conducted in a manner that upholds the dignity and rights of all individuals involved.
Key topics discussed during the training included increasing understanding of gender-based violence within the context of FRA’s operations, clarifying expectations and responsibilities during procurement processes, sharing tools for monitoring contractor compliance with SEAH risk mitigation measures, and developing skills for receiving and managing complaints related to SEAH. Participants were also equipped with knowledge to conduct effective inductions on SEAH issues for staff and contractors, fostering a culture of accountability and safety.
FRA’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Apisai Ketenilagi, expressed the importance of the training, stating, “The training was an eye-opener for many of the participants, particularly for males in senior leadership positions. It provided an opportunity for participants to differentiate between gender attributes, privileges, and opportunities associated with specific genders, as well as understand the different types of gender-based violence and safeguarding measures.”
This initiative underscores FRA’s ongoing dedication to promoting gender equality, safeguarding staff and contractors, and ensuring that the organization upholds the highest standards of safety and respect in all its operations.
