Basic Training on Gender Equality, Disability, and Social Inclusion (GEDSI) and Its Relevance to the Renewable Energy Sector

To encourage the local government to design regulations and policies for gender mainstreaming in the energy sector in Maluku, New Zealand-Maluku Access to Renewable Energy Support (NZMATES) conducted a basic training on Gender Equality, Disability, and Social Inclusion (GEDSI) and its relevance to the renewable energy sector. The training took place on 27-28 August 2024. It aimed to enhance the knowledge and understanding of NZMATES' key partners about GEDSI concepts and contribute to gender-responsive decision-making in the renewable energy sector at the provincial government level.This step was taken because, according to a study by NZMATES, implementing gender mainstreaming remains a challenge for the Maluku Provincial Government.

The training was attended by representatives from the Maluku Provincial Department of Energy and Mineral Resources, PT PLN UIW MMU, the Maluku Provincial Planning and Development Agency, Pattimura University (Unpatti), Ambon State Polytechnic (PNA), the Department of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection, and NZMATES staff. Over the two days, participants engaged in discussions and small group exchanges to deepen their understanding of GEDSI concepts, its importance, issues, relevance, and the impact of gender bias in the workplace and decision-making. 

Training participants expressed that the session helped them understand how to overcome resistance to gender equality, disability, and social inclusion (GEDSI), particularly in the renewable energy sector. Thanks to the well-delivered material, they were able to comprehend unconscious bias and its impact on their work and decision-making processes.