The Oceania Institute of Technology (OIT) is preparing to officially launch on January 24 of the upcoming year, introducing an innovative training model designed to foster strong ties between industry and education. CEO Hasmukh Lal has drawn comparisons between OIT’s approach and the effective “German model,” which emphasizes collaboration between private enterprises and educational institutions to reduce the necessity for employee retraining.
This integrated model will provide theoretical education at the institute while allowing students to gain practical experience directly at employer sites. Lal explained that employers play a crucial role in developing the curriculum and assessing students, thereby addressing the gap between graduate skills and industry demands.
The institute aims to equip students with the necessary skills to enter the workforce without the need for additional retraining, ultimately improving the quality and relevance of education in Fiji. During the opening event, OIT is expected to form several industry partnerships that will facilitate direct work placements for graduates, enhancing their employability.
In a significant early achievement, OIT has reported an impressive 99% completion rate among its first cohort of 242 students, who recently graduated. Lal noted that this success follows a government-funded four-week course and emphasized that only a small number of students were unable to complete the program due to prior commitments, highlighting the institute’s ability to engage its students effectively.
The high completion rate reflects OIT’s focus on a curriculum that prioritizes practical, hands-on learning over traditional theoretical methods. This engaging approach fosters student involvement and interest, which has been key to the program’s success. Furthermore, OIT’s community-based recruitment strategy, involving collaborations with local leaders, has successfully identified and included many unemployed youth and adults, with a notable number of graduates coming from Narewa Village.
This forward-thinking initiative not only aims to bridge the skills gap in Fiji’s workforce but also serves as a promising sign for improving educational outcomes and supporting community development through tailored vocational training. With such a strong start, the Oceania Institute of Technology is poised to make a meaningful impact on both its students and the broader community.