The Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) has released its latest staff establishment report, highlighting progress in diversity and inclusivity while still facing imbalances in leadership representation.
Appearing before the Senate Committee on National Cohesion, Equal Opportunity, and Regional Integration, chaired by Mohamed Said Chute, HELB CEO Geoffrey Monari said the institution is making progress but acknowledged that challenges remain.
The report shows near parity between male and female employees overall.
However, men continue to dominate senior and middle management positions, indicating a persistent imbalance at higher levels.
Women are more prominently represented in non-management roles, suggesting that while hiring may be balanced, upward mobility within the organization remains uneven.
Staffing includes a mix of younger and more experienced employees, providing a combination of innovation and institutional memory, although the report does not detail how generational transitions are managed.
On diversity, the report shows representation from multiple communities, which Monari said aligns with national requirements for inclusivity in public service. However, the report does not analyse disparities or trends within these groups.
“The institution also underscores its compliance with legal frameworks, including Section 53(6) of the Public Procurement and Assets Disposal Act,” Monari said. He added, “We have put measures in place to promote inclusivity and ensure equal opportunities across the workforce.”
Regarding disability inclusion, the CEO noted that HELB is monitoring and ready to improve representation of persons living with disabilities within its ranks.
While the report shows progress in gender balance and diversity, it highlights the need for greater equity in leadership positions. Senators said that bridging this gap will be key to ensuring that inclusivity efforts are reflected not just in numbers, but also in decision-making structures.
