Pacific Island countries and territories (PICTs) place great value on education, using education as a tool to empower people to take ownership of their livelihoods and well-being. Education is vital for women’s empowerment, and also brings significant benefits to families, communities and economies.1 Progress has been made in relation to women’s and girls’ access to education in the Pacific. However, levels of achievement vary from country to country and are affected by a number of factors. This paper will discuss key gender equality issues in the region that may impede women’s access to education, and will highlight new and ongoing initiatives to improve women’s and girls’ access to education since the 11th Triennial Conference of Pacific Women (11th Triennial Conference).