Page 24 65. The policy of the Sahrawi Government is to pave the way for women to benefit from education, training and self-development programmes in a bid to expand their role and participation in public affairs unlike what obtained in the traditional society. There has been a great expansion of the scope of their activities covering political, administrative and judicial competences and responsibilities. 66. For the promotion of women, an office was opened in 2003 as an indication of the will of the Sahrawi State to adopt gender equality approach. 67. Since its inception, this office has been carrying out its duties as defined in the policies and programmes of the Sahrawi Government for the promotion of women through:  Formulation of policies for the promotion and protection of women;  Promotion and popularisation of rights and obligations of women and the rights of the child in collaboration with the sectors concerned such as the Sahrawi Women‟s National Association;  Ensuring access for women and girls to the educational and administrative institutions (enrolment, training, employment etc.);  Implementation of professional integration programmes for women in different situations (breadwinners for dependants, widows, divorcees with children, spouses of disabled persons, disabled women etc.);  Psychological , legal and social orientation of women who need such support;