Young Fijians are advocating for more immediate and tangible action from their government on issues like education, employment, and entrepreneurship. Opposition MP Alvick Maharaj highlighted this demand during a recent statement, emphasizing that Generation Z assesses their leaders not merely on rhetoric, but on the speed of their actions. Maharaj pointed out that the young generation in Fiji seeks partnership, participation, and practical tools to help create job opportunities, aiming for more than just being job applicants in a competitive market.
The Opposition MP also expressed concerns about current student loan policies, criticizing certain bond-to-payment conversions that he believes unfairly burden graduates. He urged the government to align its policies with a pace that matches contemporary demands, as modern youth expect authentic engagement tied to their lifestyles.
Maharaj remarked, “Gen Z judges leaders not by their words, but by their speed and action. They want governments to collaborate, listen, and equip them with the means to create jobs.” He called for significant reforms across multiple sectors, including education, apprenticeships, digital access, mental health, and entrepreneurship.
In response, Public Works Minister Ro Filipe Tuisawau dismissed much of the criticism as mere rhetoric. He emphasized the government’s efforts to ease financial burdens on youth, citing the removal of debt as a measure that provides both financial and emotional relief for young Fijians. Tuisawau underscored the necessity of building on past successes while expanding existing programs to foster job creation and skills development.
The urgency of these calls for reform comes amid worrying statistics regarding youth unemployment in Fiji, which has reached nearly 20%. Recent discussions have revealed that one in four young Fijians are disengaged from work, education, or training, indicating a vast reservoir of untapped potential that could threaten the nation’s future if not addressed.
Both Maharaj’s comments and recent critiques from other leaders echo a growing sentiment that the education system in Fiji needs thorough reform to prepare youth adequately for the job market. Continued collaboration between governmental bodies, educational institutions, and the private sector is essential to tackle these challenges effectively. The call for reform is bolstered by initiatives like the National Youth Employment and Skills Development Program, which aims to offer more vocational training and apprenticeship opportunities.
As Fiji navigates these complex issues, there is hope that ongoing reforms can empower the next generation, creating a workforce equipped with the skills and opportunities needed to thrive in a rapidly changing economic landscape. By fostering an environment conducive to innovation and growth, Fiji can aspire to not only reduce unemployment but also build a stable, prosperous society for its youth.