The Ministry of Women, Children, and Social Protection in Fiji is taking active steps to enhance the livelihoods of vulnerable groups by providing targeted skills training. Recently, a week-long Basic Pattern and Garment Making Training was conducted at the Fiji National University’s School of Executive Management, Fashion and Design for 14 participants. These participants were drawn from Koroipita Model Town, Daulomani Safe Home, the Western branch of the National Council for Persons with Disabilities, and carers from the Golden Age Home in Lautoka.
The initiative aimed at empowering attendees to gain practical tailoring skills, which they could then pass on to others within their organizations and communities, creating a sustainable model of skills dissemination. Notably, many of these individuals are beneficiaries of the Ministry’s social welfare programs, and the training offers a pathway to increased self-reliance by equipping them with the ability to generate income through tailoring.
This program builds on earlier efforts by the Ministry, which had provided sewing machines to these organizations to initiate small tailoring projects. By incorporating structured training, the initiative ensures participants are not only equipped with practical tools but also with the technical knowledge necessary to effectively use these resources. As a result, participants are empowered to produce quality garments, thereby improving their economic standing and independence.
This endeavor is part of a broader governmental approach to uplift vulnerable populations across Fiji, resonating with similar initiatives aimed at various groups, including former street dwellers and young women, which have been implemented in collaboration with organizations like the Australian Pacific Training Coalition. These initiatives emphasize skill development as a crucial step towards financial independence and community strengthening.
By fostering skills training, the Ministry is not only enabling individuals to contribute more effectively within their communities but is also embedding a culture of self-reliance and community empowerment. This holistic approach is essential for fostering sustainable development and providing hope and opportunity to those in need.
As these efforts continue to expand, they hold the promise of not only transforming individual lives but also building a network of support that can drive broader social and economic advancement in the region. The commitment to providing ongoing support and resources for training programs reflects a dedication to creating a resilient and self-sufficient society equipped to handle future challenges.