Fiji Expands Skills Training to Address Worker Shortages

Fiji is actively working to bridge its skilled-worker deficit by significantly expanding technical and vocational training programs across the nation. Employment Minister Agni Deo Singh announced that the government is committed to strengthening these educational pathways to create more opportunities for Fijians and ensure local talent fills essential roles.

Singh noted that Fiji currently faces a shortage of skilled professionals in various trades and industries, a situation compounded by persistent youth unemployment. To address this, the government is revitalizing the educational infrastructure. This includes restoring previously closed technical colleges and vocational centers, alongside bolstering programs offered through institutions like the Fiji National University, the University of the South Pacific, and Pacific Polytech.

Beyond formal technical education, the government is also emphasizing practical skills development. Agricultural institutions are playing a role in providing hands-on training designed to enhance individuals' employability. This multi-pronged approach aims to equip Fijians with the necessary competencies to meet the demands of the current job market.

Minister Singh also clarified the country's policy on foreign workers, stating they are only brought in when employers exhaust all avenues of finding suitable local candidates after advertising vacancies. This immigration law ensures that Fijian workers are prioritized. The government encourages unemployed citizens to register with National Employment Centres, which facilitate matching individuals with available job openings, thereby streamlining the path to employment.

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And when they do not get the right people after advertising, only then can they bring workers from abroad. This is the immigration law of this country, and the Immigration Ministry takes care of it. So this is how we are doing our work. And we know that there are some professions, there are some trades, where we still have few people.