The community needs to change its approach and mindsets in order to beat the challenges facing women who aspire to provide social and national services, says President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih.

Speaking at the ceremony to bestow the prestigious Rehendhi Awards for both 2020 and 2021 held on Monday night, President Solih revealed that there are several barriers and challenges facing women from experiencing the opportunities and benefits in place, not just in the Maldives, but globally.

The president noted that there is room for improvement for the participation of women in national development as well as their representation in all sectors.

Expressing confidence that Maldives can reach new heights of impartiality and equitability with fair rights and equal participation for both men and women, as women are empowered to play major roles in the society.

Further, touching down on the importance of the Rehendhi Award, Solih noted that it revolves around the celebration of efforts and accomplishments of women in Maldives and to empower more women to play key roles in national development.

Rehendhi Awards also carry the purpose of recognizing the work of organizations and individuals fighting to break the barriers against gender equality.

While the awarding ceremony was compromised due to the situation surrounding the Covid-19 pandemic during 2020, President Solih shed light on the significant efforts of a majority of women to safeguard the country from the deadly infection. As such, women are actively spearheading the vaccination drive against coronavirus, as well as recovery efforts.

With this being said, Solih noted that these women who play prominent parts in said efforts must be appreciated and acknowledged.

Going on to highlight that the incumbent administration aims to promote gender equality in all areas including the political and social sector, the president stated that the amendments to the Decentralization Act mandates one third of respective island council seats to be comprised of women, as well as the establishment of Women's Development Committees comprising of five members elected from each island.

These efforts were successful and 39.5 percent of elected councilors are currently women, which in turn paves way for women to have a stronger impact on the decision that affect their livelihoods and local communities.

Adding that women are already playing the “most significant” role in national development, President Solih stated that women make up 78 percent of the education sector of the country as well.

Rehendhi awards were conferred to 14 women and a Women’s Development Committee this year.