The Fiji Higher Education Commission (FHEC) is taking decisive action to align academic programs with the job market by emphasizing the importance of clear employment pathways. Steve Chand, chair of FHEC, highlighted that a significant mismatch between educational offerings and job opportunities has led to rising unemployment among graduates. To combat this, FHEC now mandates that higher education institutions conduct graduate surveys to track career outcomes, ensuring programs cater to real-world job prospects.
This initiative is part of a larger strategy to make educational investments translate effectively into tangible career opportunities. The commission is working closely with educational institutions to identify and address existing skill gaps, thereby equipping students more adequately for the workforce. The role of quality teaching and the judicious use of grants were underscored by Amraiya Naidu, Chair of the Academic Board at the Sangam Institute of Technology, reinforcing the emphasis on improving graduate employability.
These steps are consistent with recent directives from the Higher Education Commission Fiji (HECF), which now requires all Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) to submit graduate employment surveys. Non-compliance could lead to the withholding of grants, as the commission prioritizes the quality and applicability of educational qualifications. Additionally, there is a push for greater transparency in funding, with spending details made publicly accessible.
These actions underscore the ongoing need for educational reforms and alignment with industry needs within Fiji. Voices from both the private and public sectors have historically emphasized this necessity. By concentrating on precise career guidance and skill development, Fiji seeks to cultivate a workforce that is both competent and competitive, domestically and regionally. This initiative aims not only to lower graduate unemployment rates but also to bolster the nation’s sustainable economic growth by fostering a more adaptable and skilled labor force.