Women get leadership training

Education

WESTERN Highlands health authority (PHA) statistics planning and monitoring acting director Julie Bengi says it is crucial for women to have decision-making roles.
“This is why they are now being trained for management and leadership skills in Papua New Guinea,” she said.
Bengi said this at the closing of a six-week intensive training programme for senior health sector managers last week.
She was one of the participants of the inaugural elevate leaders programme that included 11 representatives from the PHA and one from Susu Mamas.
At the certificate presentation, PHA acting chief executive officer (CEO) Jane Holden said the programme supported progress of the PHA’s succession plan.
“The programme is vital as it has built the confidence of the participants and equipped them to be strong contenders for the CEO position to be advertised,” she said.
“Their contributions will provide inclusiveness for the needs of women, men, children, persons with disabilities and communities.”
The programme is supported by the PNG-Australia partnership and focused on improving health sector knowledge, strengthening finance management and governance capabilities and promoting women in decision-making roles.
Australian High Commission second secretary Nikki Wright said the programme was delivered as part of a broader health partnership between PNG and Australia.
“This includes ensuring that improved systems to support women in leadership roles in the provincial health delivery system, equipping them to influence policy, planning and budgeting of health services.”
“The participants in this programme have what it takes to lead, manage and coordinate.”