The establishment of Women's Day is, on the surface, an initiative to respect women's rights and interests, and, on a deeper level, it is an initiative to respect each individual life and maintain the dignity of each person. Three years of pandemic have underscored this inherent dignity. It has made us realise that our lives are interconnected, regardless of our gender, racical or cultural identity. The pandemic has also taught us that we are not the only species on the planet and that we must share the earth’s resource with other creatures. Respect for each individual life, building a mutually inclusive and supportive society, strengthening coexistence and sustainable development should, therefore, be the guiding force behind all our deeds and the ultimate goal of education. We are one.

As Bursar, a traditionally male-dominated role, International Women’s Day holds particular significance to me as it provides an opportunity to reflect on women in education, and mostly those worldwide who sadly are forbidden from accessing it. Today, you can take a driverless car and shop in a cashierless store, yet girls, simply because they are girls, are denied access to a basic education, there is still much to be done.

Her heroes

International Women’s Day is an inspirational and positive day for men and women to take a moment to reflect and celebrate. It is a platform celebrating difference and tolerance as global citizens. This fits so well not only with our Wellington Values, but also our five I’s, especially Inclusivity.

Today is an opportunity to stop and celebrate all women who have and continue to make the world a better place. To celebrate all efforts in making society equal for all genders, that everyone has freedom of choice in what role they take on in society. It is also a time to appreciate the support from feminist men who recognize the inequalities and actively help women in breaking down barriers.

Her heroes