A panel discussion under the theme, “Equity through Generations” was held at the Moresby Arts Theatre tackling issues around sexual reproductive health and rights (SHRH), disability inclusion, youth empowerment and the evolving role of technology in rural outreach.
Panelists included, Dr. Rena Dona, Deputy Representative and Head of Programme UNFPA PNG Country Office, Gerald Bengesser, General Manager of Cheshire Disability Services PNG and Ivy Karue, Marketing & Communications Manager of Marie Stopes Papua New Guinea.
Each panelist described what equity meant to them and explained how it was applied in their organization.
Ivy Karue, Marketing & Communications Manager of Marie Stopes Papua New Guinea described equity as everyone starting from the same point regardless of disadvantages.
“Equity means creating a level playing field. Not everyone starts with the same access or ability to use services, and equity is about bridging those gaps—social, physical, or systemic.”
“In Marie Stopes, inclusion is essential. Family planning isn’t only for able-bodied people—it’s for everyone.”
“We even have a GEDSI Coordinator focused on gender equality and inclusion, making sure our service providers can cater to all individuals.”
Gerald Bengesser, General Manager of Cheshire Disability Services PNG, emphasized that physical infrastructure is only part of the solution.
“It begins with accessibility. For example, even if a school has a lift, if the road leading to it is rough and inaccessible for someone in a wheelchair, that service is still out of reach.”
“Equity sounds good, but we’re still far from achieving it. We need to be honest about the journey. It’s long and requires thoughtful steps forward.”
He recounted stories from Cheshire’s Young Voices program, where young people living with disabilities identify their own technological needs and explore creative solutions using accessible tools like mobile phones.
Representing the UN, Dr. Rena Doner underscored the importance of listening to young people and to not make assumptions on their needs.
“There are so many misguided assumptions. For example, ‘Young people are prioritizing careers over family’, which leads to blaming them for low fertility rates.”
“This can lead to making policies that worsen the situation.”
She also emphasized on the risks digital spaces have on sensitive topics such as sexuality and GBV.
“Digital spaces can also fuel gender-based violence and misinformation, which we must address alongside the benefits.”
Reflecting on their outreach work with YWAM and Marie Stopes, both Bangeza and Carwin noted a cultural shift in how communities engage with sensitive topics.
“In 2011, we had to separate men and women during SRHR talks.”
“But last year, we sat with an entire village, men included, to talk openly about contraceptives and side effects.”
Bangeza added that in the early 2010s, community reactions to puberty education were awkward and shy.
Now, with mobile phones widespread even in remote areas, youth are often exposed to adult content without context or guidance.
“We’ve essentially given fire to communities without teaching them how to use it.”
The panel concluded with a strong call for collaboration across sectors.