Fiji's TCF industry calls for dedicated training centers amid skills shortage

Fiji's Textile, Clothing, and Footwear (TCF) industry is facing a significant skills gap, prompting calls for government intervention to establish specialized training facilities. The TCF Council President, Inbamalar Wanarajan, highlighted the critical shortage of skilled labor, stating that the sector no longer benefits from dedicated institutions capable of producing industry-ready graduates.

Wanarajan emphasized that the industry is experiencing severe deficiencies in crucial areas such as industrial sewing, pattern making, and quality control. This lack of specialized training directly impacts the sector's ability to meet production demands and maintain high standards. Without a consistent pipeline of skilled workers, the TCF industry's growth and competitiveness are at risk.

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the sector no longer has specialized institutions producing industry-ready graduates.

The council's appeal underscores a broader challenge: aligning vocational training with the specific needs of growing industries. Establishing dedicated training centers would not only address the immediate labor shortage but also ensure the long-term sustainability and development of Fiji's TCF sector, enabling it to thrive in a competitive global market.

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the industry is facing critical shortages in industrial sewing, pattern making, quality […]