“For me, this training is about more than learning to drive. Having a license can make it easier to get to work, support my family, and take part in my community with greater independence”
A participant’s reflection on the initiative
Palikir, Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia, October 16, 2026
For 132 women across the Federated States of Micronesia, learning the rules of the road represented more than preparing for a driver’s license. It offered a step toward greater independence, easier access to work and essential services, and fuller participation in family and community life.
The women took part in the Driver Licensing Pilot and Capacity-Building Initiative, delivered by the FSM Department of Transportation, Communications and Infrastructure (DoTC&I) through the Gender Equity and Empowerment component of the World Bank-supported PRIME and SCORE projects. The consultancy concluded on October 14, 2026, after reaching 132 women—surpassing its target of 120 across Chuuk, Pohnpei, Yap, and Kosrae.
Launched in February 2026, the initiative opened driver education to women aged 16 and older who did not hold a valid driver’s license. With an original goal of reaching 30 women in each state, the program achieved approximately 110% of its overall target—evidence of strong interest in an opportunity that can make everyday movement, employment, caregiving, and community participation more accessible.
Implemented with CH Group Consulting and state-level partners, the initiative combined driver education workshops with practical support for the public institutions responsible for licensing. Department of Public Safety personnel received capacity-building support, state partners received follow-up assistance, and relevant staff were trained to use the driver license applicant database.
The program also recognized that access is not only about teaching driving skills. It requires public services where women are treated with dignity and where personnel understand gender equality and safety. Training therefore covered gender equality, gender-based violence (GBV), sexual exploitation and abuse (SEA), sexual harassment (SH), and appropriate response and referral mechanisms.
Implementation was not without challenges. Limited time for community awareness and different rates of progress among the states showed the need for earlier outreach, close coordination with state partners, flexible schedules, and clear information about eligibility and licensing procedures. These lessons will be important in helping future participants move successfully from driver education through the licensing process.
The pilot’s strongest result is reflected not only in the number of women reached, but in what that participation can make possible. Continued support and coordination can help participants complete the licensing process and turn new knowledge into lasting mobility, confidence, and opportunity.
Partnership Behind the Progress
DoTC&I extends its sincere appreciation to the World Bank for the financial support and commitment that made the initiative possible, and to CH Group Consulting for its technical expertise, dedication, and collaboration.
Special recognition is extended to the Pohnpei State Department of Public Safety for its cooperation throughout the driver licensing activities and to the Pohnpei Women Council for helping reach, encourage, and support women to take part.
Most importantly, the Department thanks all 132 women who stepped forward to participate, learn, and pursue the opportunity to obtain a driver’s license. Their participation demonstrates why accessible programs for women matter—and how practical skills can strengthen involvement in economic, family, and community life.
The initiative’s progress reflects the collective effort of government agencies, development partners, community organizations, trainers, and participants working toward a shared goal: creating safer, more inclusive pathways for women across the FSM.
