The inaugural graduation ceremony of the Oceania Institute of Technology (OIT) marked a significant milestone for women’s empowerment in the region. Held at Challenge Plaza in Nadi, the event celebrated 242 graduates from the micro-qualifications program, with an impressive 84 percent being women. This statistic highlights the ongoing efforts to enhance educational and employment opportunities for females in Fiji.
Established under Oceania Education and Technology Solutions, OIT was created in response to the understanding that more than half of Fiji’s job market is within the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) sector. Group Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, Hasmukh Lal, stated that the institute aims to bridge the gap between the skills required by the private sector and government organizations, addressing workforce needs across the Pacific.
Lal emphasized the importance of providing individuals with the skills necessary to pursue further education and achieve financial independence, particularly amid increasing global mobility in labor. The institution proudly reported a 99 percent completion rate for its first cohort, a strong indication of its commitment to education and skills development.
OIT has plans to expand its academic offerings, which currently include certificates and diplomas, as well as advanced diplomas awaiting registration. Lal confirmed, “We have applied for the registration of programs, and once approved, we will offer certificates, diplomas, and advanced diplomas in fields such as tourism, hospitality, ICT, engineering, business and commerce, and education.”
The urgency for such programs was highlighted by the chief guest and representative of the Tui Nadi, Samuela Tuidraki, who called for government support in fostering policies that promote educational initiatives like those at OIT. This focus on women’s empowerment and workforce improvement presents a hopeful vision for the future, as OIT plays a vital role in building a more skilled and self-sufficient population in both Fiji and the wider Pacific region.