The Ministry of Finance’s Strategic Planning Office in Fiji has embarked on the development of the National Strategic Human Resource Plan (NSHRP) for the period of 2026 to 2035, aiming to effectively guide workforce planning in the years ahead. Assistant Minister Esrom Emmanuel announced that this new plan replaces the older framework, which became obsolete in 2015.
During the planning process, he stated that the office is utilizing the most current data on population, employment, and the labor market to create strategies that align with workforce needs. “We are currently analyzing the bureau’s latest population data, employment and unemployment data, and labor market statistics to gauge Fiji’s current labor market operations,” Emmanuel noted.
Consultations with key stakeholders are in progress, with a steering committee expected to review draft sections of the NSHRP soon. Emmanuel emphasized the importance of the new plan in shaping the long-term priorities for human resource development in Fiji.
This initiative coincides with recent efforts to finalize the Fiji National Employment Policy, which aims to enhance the labor market by improving working conditions, promoting education and skills development, and addressing issues such as labor migration and climate resilience. The upcoming employment policy, which is on track for finalization by July 2025, aligns with the National Development Plan and aims to create new opportunities across various sectors.
Additionally, there is a growing acknowledgment of the need for improved coordination in skills development and workforce planning, an issue raised by Dr. Ganesh Chand during a past forum. His call for a dedicated ministry for skills development underscores the urgency in addressing Fiji’s human resource needs effectively.
The ongoing initiatives reflect a broader commitment by the Fijian government to bolster its labor framework and enhance the skills of its workforce. These steps indicate a positive shift toward future-proofing Fiji’s economy while cultivating a resilient and capable labor force. By prioritizing strategic planning and stakeholder engagement, Fiji is poised to build a robust human resource environment that meets both local and international demands.