The recent Central Division TVET Skills Fair and Careers Expo in Fiji represents a pivotal shift in the nation’s educational landscape, emphasizing practical skills essential for the modern workforce. Conducted at the FMF Gymnasium, the initiative highlights the vital role of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in equipping students with tangible abilities and fostering a spirit of innovation.
Education Minister Aseri Radrodro pointed out that the expo demonstrated the inventive and entrepreneurial capabilities of the students. Plans are in place to replicate similar events across other regions, ultimately leading to a National Skills Expo later this year, signifying a nationwide push towards integrating practical skill development into the education system.
The expo attracted over 4,800 attendees, including students and educators from 60 schools, along with numerous industry partners and development agencies. Students showcased competencies in disciplines such as construction, woodworking, and digital technology, reflecting a growing demand for education that extends beyond traditional academic frameworks to emphasize hands-on learning. This approach is geared towards fostering skills, entrepreneurship, and innovation among the youth.
Radrodro emphasized leveraging local resources and indigenous knowledge to solve real-world problems. Students presented inventive solutions for sustainable buildings and renewable energy, highlighting their creativity, resilience, and focus on community welfare. Moreover, the event featured workshops and panels where students engaged with employers and technical experts, gaining valuable insights into various career opportunities and labor market trends.
Opposition MP Hem Chand supports this direction, advocating for enhanced career guidance and early parental involvement to steer students toward skills-focused careers. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to address labor shortages in key sectors like construction, engineering, and the digital economy, which positions TVET as a central theme in national education and employment discourse.
The upcoming National Skills Fair, slated for December 1, aims to showcase top projects from different divisions, fostering stronger collaboration between schools and industries. It will also promote micro-qualifications and support Fiji’s green and blue economy, showcasing a positive trajectory for Fiji’s educational reforms as it prepares students for a future-ready workforce. This focus on practical skills and innovation is crucial for sustaining Fiji’s economic resilience and promoting sustainable development in the face of global challenges.