Opposition member Jone Usamate has called for a systemic overhaul in how government ministries deliver services, emphasizing the need for improved efficiency, accountability, and long-term performance. During a recent address in Parliament, Usamate advocated for the adoption of the Fiji Business Excellence Awards framework, which has proven effective in shaping world-class organizations in both public and private sectors.
Usamate stressed that ministries should concentrate on several critical areas: leadership, strategic planning, customer service, data-driven management, and human resource processes. He highlighted that a focus on these domains is essential for fostering continual improvement within public services, which would ultimately enhance performance nationwide.
In a related development, Minister for Youth and Sports Jese Saukuru revealed that his ministry has already incorporated the awards framework into its transformation strategy, aimed at nurturing innovation, accountability, and operational excellence. Saukuru pointed to the impressive achievements of the Fiji National Rugby League Bulikula girls team, who triumphed over financial obstacles to qualify for the 2026 World Cup in Australia, demonstrating resilience and talent by decisively defeating Canada and Nigeria in their qualifiers.
Furthermore, the success of the National Youth Band, which received the One Star Award at the 2025 National Convention on Innovation and Quality, exemplifies the ministry’s commitment to quality and data-driven planning. Saukuru indicated that these accomplishments are part of a broader effort to implement continuous improvement practices across all divisions of the ministry, paving the way for a transformative future focused on culture and innovation.
Both Usamate’s insights and Saukuru’s initiatives illustrate a shared commitment among government officials to elevate service delivery and outcomes for Fiji. More importantly, these developments signal a hopeful direction for the nation’s governance, promising enhanced public service performance and empowering the youth through innovation and inclusivity. The combination of a structured framework and strong leadership suggests a potential for lasting positive change within Fiji’s public service landscape.