Women’s empowerment was at the forefront during the inaugural graduation ceremony of the Oceania Institute of Technology (OIT), which took place at Challenge Plaza in Nadi. The event saw 242 students graduate from the micro-qualifications program, where a remarkable 84 percent were women, underscoring significant strides in promoting educational and employment opportunities for females in the region.
OIT, a newly-established institution under Oceania Education and Technology Solutions, emerged from the recognition that over half of the job market in Fiji is encompassed within the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) sector. According to Group Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, Hasmukh Lal, the institute is dedicated to bridging the gap between the skills demanded by the private sector and government commercial entities while addressing the workforce requirements across the Pacific.
Lal emphasized the necessity of equipping individuals with the skills to pursue further education and attain financial independence, especially in the context of increasing global labor mobility. The institute proudly achieved a 99 percent completion rate for its inaugural cohort, reflecting a solid foundation towards achieving its long-term aspirations.
Plans are in place to broaden OIT’s academic portfolio, which currently includes certificates, diplomas, and advanced diploma programs pending registration. “We have applied for the registration of programs, which we are awaiting, and once we get the registration of programs, then we’ll be offering certificates, diplomas, advanced diplomas in tourism, hospitality, ICT, engineering, business and commerce, and education,” Lal noted.
The significance of such programs was underscored by the chief guest and representative of the Tui Nadi, Samuela Tuidraki, who urged the government to continue fostering and enhancing policies that support similar educational initiatives. This commitment to women’s empowerment and workforce development reflects a hopeful outlook for the future, as OIT contributes to creating a more skilled and independent populace in Fiji and the wider Pacific region.