Nasfund, coalition partner to empower women leaders

SUPERANNUATION education is essential for individuals to understand how to maximise their retirement savings, says National Superannuation Fund (Nasfund) chief executive officer Rajeev Sharma.
He said Nasfund and the Business Coalition for Women (BCfW) are partnering to empower female leaders through a superannuation education initiative.
“This collaboration underscores both organisations’ commitment to fostering gender equality and financial literacy in PNG.”
In March 2021, the Pacific Islands Investment Forum (PIIF) board approved the 2021 strategy and business plan for the Secretariat to establish a Women in Super programme to address the barriers to women’s equal access to retirement funds in the Pacific Islands.
The findings of the Private Sector Development Initiative study found that despite progress in gender equality, women continue to face challenges in accessing retirement funds and maximising their benefits. These challenges include policy and regulatory barriers, organisational constraints, and a lack of awareness and financial literacy among women.
“It involves learning about contribution strategies, and the importance of long-term financial planning.
“BCfW and Nasfund agree that targeting these participants who are recognised by their respective employers from the public and private sectors as people leaders ensures a rippling effect of knowledge is cascaded throughout their respective organisations to their people,” Sharma said.
BCfW executive director Evonne Kennedy said: “This partnership between Nasfund and BCfW marks a significant step forward in addressing the gender gap in retirement planning and promoting women’s inclusion and empowerment.
“Through our collaboration, we aim to equip female leaders and emerging leaders with essential knowledge and tools to navigate retirement planning and financial literacy.”
Nasfund’s superannuation education modules will be integrated into BCfW’s leadership programmes, where Nasfund trainers certified by the Centre for Excellence in Financial Inclusion will deliver the session to the BCfW Executive Women in Leadership programme attendees.
“We are excited about the potential impact of this partnership and remain committed to advancing the rights and opportunities of women in leadership.
“Together, we can build a brighter and more prosperous future for all,” Kennedy said.