Fiji and Japan have recently strengthened their collaboration by signing a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) focused on the Technical Intern Training Program. This agreement, signed during the official visit of Fiji’s Prime Minister to Japan, aims to create employment opportunities for Fijians in Japan’s advanced economy.
The MoC was executed by Jone Maritino Nemani, Permanent Secretary for Employment, Productivity, and Workplace Relations of Fiji, and Hideharu Maruyama, Commissioner of the Immigration Services Agency of Japan. It signifies a strategic commitment to transferring technical skills and knowledge essential for enhancing the capacity of Fiji’s workforce.
By facilitating the exchange of skills and techniques, this initiative not only aims to better equip the Fijian labor force but also helps to mitigate labor shortages in key sectors in Japan. Trainees from Fiji will gain invaluable experience through hands-on work in various technical fields while in Japan, a move seen as crucial for Fiji’s economic growth as they contribute to their home country’s productivity upon returning.
Beyond the economic perspective, this agreement represents a deepening of cultural ties, promoting greater bilateral relationships between the two nations. As both countries look towards fostering sustainable employment pathways, this partnership reflects a proactive approach to regional collaboration and mutual development.
This MoC marks an encouraging step forward for Fiji as it seeks to cultivate a workforce that can compete on a global scale while also strengthening the bonds with Japan, which has shown a solid commitment to supporting Fiji’s development needs over the years.