Pohnpei, FSM – The United Nations Development Progamme (UNDP) in collaboration with the Federated States of Micronesia’s Department of Health and Social Affairs supported the FSM State Scholastic Gender Equality Games for youth to foster national pride and gender equality.

Supported by the India-UN Development Partnership Fund through UNDP’s Strengthening the FSM’s Gender Machinery Process, the Pohnpei State's March Madness Basketball Tournament 2022 involved six women’s team and nine men’s team.

During the award ceremony, UNDP’s Deputy Resident Representative and Country Manager in the Federated States of Micronesia, Kevin Petrini, highlighted that Gender Equality is a key factor for sustainable growth, social development, and environmental sustainability.

“By providing the same opportunities to women and men and ensuring that no one is left behind in our activities, a sustainable and inclusive path of development can be achieved,” he said.

Mr. Petrini reiterated, “Through the establishment of values such as non-discrimination and teamwork, sports can be used as a tool to achieve gender-equality. It can also be used to increase opportunities for women and girls to develop new skills, gain support from others and be empowered to enjoy freedom of expression and movement.”

Augustine Sue from the FSM Social Affairs, who represented the Secretary of the FSM Department of Health and Social Affairs, thanked the organizers for providing a platform for young girls to participate in youth sporting activities.

He said, “The event signifies the national and state governments, international and regional partners commitment to ensuring gender equality and inclusiveness.”

One of the female participants who was also awarded ‘Most Valuable Player’ in the games’ female division, Sylvileen Tom of PIC High School, thanked her other opponents saying, “Gender equality is when people of all genders have equal rights, responsibilities, and opportunities. Equality for all women, men, trans and gender diverse people, and families. It impacts people of all ages and backgrounds.”

JT “Oppa” Mingil from Pohnpei Seventh-Day Adventist School was awarded ‘Most Valuable Player’ in the male division.

He said, “Maybe one day as time goes by, we can become great leaders, standing up and fighting for gender equality. Basketball is not just an ordinary game; it helps us build relationships with one another.

“The March Madness Tournament is not only about playing together on the court but also the connection between players and our community."

The Scholastic Gender Equity Game was held between 1 March and 18 April 2022 and is coordinated by the FSM Sports Coordinator. Following this, other games will also be hosted in Chuuk, Kosare and Yap.

The India-UN Development Partnership Fund is a dedicated facility within the United Nations Fund for South-South Cooperation established in 2017. It is supported and led by the Government of the Republic of India, managed by the United Nations Office for South-South Cooperation, and implemented in collaboration with the United Nations system.

For more information, please contact:

John Curley, Strengthening the FSM’s Gender Machinery Project Manager, Email: jcurley@fsmhealth.fm

Mr. Sebastian Tairuwepiy, FSM Sports Coordinator & Physical Wellness, Email: stairuwepiy@fsmhealth.fm