This Christmas will be extra special for 41 trainees who have graduated with a Certificate IV in Music from the Youth Training Centre Valelevu, marking a proud milestone for the institution.
While speaking at the graduation ceremony, the Minister for Youth and Sports, Jese Saukuru highlighted the important role played by the Ministry’s five youth training centres located around the country.
He says these centres provide non-formal education and skills-based training, offering young people a vital second chance to upskill and build sustainable futures.
He adds that the Youth Training Centre, home of the National Youth Band Programme, provides both theoretical and practical music training aimed at improving employment prospects in the music and performing arts industry.
The Minister says that graduates of the Youth Training Centre have gone on to excel in various fields, with 21 graduates currently serving as volunteers with the National Youth Band, 12 trainees joining the Republic of Fiji Military Forces, two joining the Fiji Corrections Service, and one joining the Fiji Police Force.
He says others are working as musicians, teachers, trainers, and performers in secondary schools, hotels, tourist destinations, and overseas institutions, including the British Army.
Meanwhile, the Manager of the Youth Training Centre Valelevu, Kavitesh Behari highlighted that the graduation marked not only academic success, but also the growth of character, discipline, and determination developed by each trainee.
He says the day belonged to the graduates and that they should be immensely proud of what they have achieved.
Behari also acknowledged the vital role played by parents and guardians, thanking them for their unwavering support, encouragement, and sacrifices that contributed to the success of the graduates.
