Fiji is significantly advancing its cooperative sector with the revitalization of the Cooperative College located in Lami. This initiative is geared towards fostering sustainable economic growth while providing essential skills to communities through accredited training programs. Finance Minister Esrom Immanuel announced that approximately $225,000 has been allocated for renovations in the current financial year, with further developments in partnership with the Ministry of Public Works.
The Cooperative College is set to become a key institution, empowering youth and women to take part in cooperative ventures and small businesses. Immanuel highlighted the college’s role in facilitating access to accredited qualifications, which will help transform participants into proficient cooperative managers and entrepreneurs. This initiative is expected to play a vital role in enhancing economic development across local communities, villages, and provinces.
Over the next five years, the college plans to evolve into a fully accredited training center offering a range of programs, including Certificates, Diplomas, and Degrees in cooperative management. In an innovative twist, the implementation of hybrid learning—combining both classroom and online training—aims to widen educational access, especially for populations in rural and remote areas.
This revival of the Cooperative College reflects a broader trend in Fiji, showcasing the government’s commitment to empowering cooperative groups through various supportive initiatives. Recent training sessions for cooperative members from Narocake and Muana-i-Ra have concentrated on governance, entrepreneurship, and resource sustainability, enhancing their management skills. These efforts signify a collective movement to strengthen local economies while preserving cultural identities, hence offering a beacon of hope for communal resilience.
The government’s support for cooperatives is also evident through grants from the Cooperative Development Fund and the introduction of a digital database system to improve access to cooperative information. The cooperative movement in Fiji has experienced substantial growth, with around 715 cooperatives managing assets worth $151 million and generating over $26 million in revenue, positively impacting the lives of approximately 40,000 members.
These exciting developments suggest a promising future for Fiji’s cooperative sector, emphasizing the potential for innovation, community empowerment, and sustainable economic progress. As these initiatives take effect, they pave the way for individuals to achieve their entrepreneurial dreams while fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose, ultimately contributing to a better future for all Fijians.