Forum to discuss gender equality issues within New Zealand

A group of influential women will  discuss gender equality issues within New Zealand at AUT’s city campus this week.

The forum will take place tomorrow and will open the floor for attendees to discuss their opinions and suggestions.

AUT senior psychology lecturer Dr Pani Farvid told Te Waha Nui discussion on gender equality was still needed in New Zealand.

“There is a sense of stagnation regarding equality in New Zealand, which could become regression. Pay gap and violence against women are still huge issues here.”

Dr Farvid, a committee member of ‘Women on Campus’, also believed that while AUT is a lot more equal and diverse than other universities there was still some gender division.

“There’s not gender equity in terms of professors and higher up positions in the university. [Women] are not a minority at AUT but are still under-represented.”

The forum will include a variety of topics ranging from gender diversity in the tertiary setting, local actions that need to be taken, and gender issues that affect Māori.

Nurain Janah, who was the New Zealand delegate at the UN Commission on the status of women, will speak about her experience in that role.

“The UN wanted a younger voice at the conference. I’m an accountant by trade, but I also mentor young women sharing knowledge and advice. I’m excited to share the knowledge that I learnt.”

Women on Campus president Sarah Trottman said the forum was open for anyone to attend.

“We want people of all genders to attend, we’ve had a major growth of members this year already, and are hoping we can raise this 15 per cent by the end of the year through word of mouth.”

Entrance to the forum will be free, but a $5 donation or koha is appreciated. The forum will take place this Wednesday in AUT’s WG building level three, at 9.30am.