Datec Fiji, a leading provider of ICT solutions, is poised to enhance its training academy located in Suva, focusing on strengthening the country’s digital outsourcing workforce. This ambitious initiative is supported by an $80,000 grant from the Australian government’s Market Development Facility (MDF), which aims to provide accredited training in high-demand areas like cybersecurity, artificial intelligence (AI), automation, and digital systems.
As the need for higher-value Knowledge Process Outsourcing (KPO) and Information Technology Outsourcing (ITO) contracts continues to rise among outsourcing firms, the academy is set to train over 100 participants each year. The training programs will be accredited by the Fiji Higher Education Commission (FHEC), allowing students to potentially access funding through the Fiji National Provident Fund (FNPF) and the Tertiary Scholarship and Loans Service (TSLS).
Datec Fiji’s CEO, Vinit Nand, highlighted the goal of nurturing a workforce prepared for the future by investing in diverse demographics, including women, youth, and people with disabilities. This initiative aims to equip students with the skills necessary for high-value digital careers, thereby reinforcing Fiji’s reputation as a competitive outsourcing destination and ICT hub.
The partnership with MDF will facilitate the development of a customized curriculum tailored to industry requirements, as well as the recruitment of a master trainer to oversee training initiatives for local instructors. Moreover, MDF will assist Datec in meeting accessibility standards for training and invest in inclusive infrastructure and technology, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can benefit from these educational opportunities.
Kelera Cavuilati, MDF country director, noted that this collaboration embodies the shared vision of the Fiji-Australia Vuvale Partnership, aiming to cultivate a workforce equipped with the skills required for the evolving digital economy. She emphasized the outsourcing sector’s significant role, contributing in excess of $200 million annually and employing over 8,000 people, underscoring the urgency of addressing the skills gap in KPO and ITO roles which currently hampers sustained growth.
This collaboration also seeks to create training pathways for Fijians that align with the BPO, KPO, and ICT sectors, enhancing government efforts as indicated in the National Development Plan (NDP) and Vision 2050. Cavuilati underscored the importance of inclusivity, ensuring that the advancements in the digital economy are accessible to all.
With Datec planning to invest around $250,000 in the necessary infrastructure to facilitate this training, the outlook for the industry is optimistic. This initiative not only promises to bridge the skills gap but also aims to create significant employment opportunities and spur economic growth, benefiting businesses and households throughout Fiji.