The Ba Women’s Forum has achieved a significant milestone by receiving official recognition from the Fiji Higher Education Commission (FHEC). This achievement was confirmed by forum president Dr. Maria Dotton, who noted that members of the FHEC visited the training center in Ba last Friday to tour the facility.
Dr. Dotton expressed enthusiasm for this recognition, stating that it provides a pathway for graduates to obtain a national qualification, enhancing their opportunities for employment or entrepreneurship. To date, the forum has successfully upskilled over 1,400 women, and with this recognition, the center is set to become a crucial hub for facilitating job opportunities.
Each course offered at the Ba Women’s Forum comprises 400 training hours, marking a significant accomplishment in ensuring comprehensive skill development. Dr. Dotton emphasized the goal of helping women transition into formal qualifications, maintaining standards that meet the expectations of the Higher Education Commission.
Additionally, she confirmed that the Women, Children, and Social Protection Ministry is providing a grant to support allowances for trainers, further reinforcing the forum’s commitment to empowering women through education.
The recognition aligns with the broader efforts in Fiji to boost educational access and quality, as highlighted in recent developments like the opening of the Higher Education Commission’s office in Labasa, and initiatives aimed at increasing women’s participation in both education and economic activities.
These collective efforts reflect a hopeful trajectory towards creating a more skilled workforce that can drive innovation and economic growth in Fiji. The commitment to education and women’s empowerment is poised to have a positive impact on society, inspiring future generations and contributing to sustainable development across the nation.