The Fiji National University has partnered with the Ministry of Education to launch the pilot phase of the TVET First Initiative which is set to roll out in five secondary schools this academic year.
In a statement, FNU says this initiative, aligned with Thematic Area 5 of the Ministry of Education Policy Framework (Denarau Declaration 2023), focuses on supporting gender equity, disability inclusivity, and the re-introduction of franchise arrangements.
FNU adds the aim of this initiative is to improve access, quality, and relevance in technical and vocational education while fostering franchise partnerships that promote mutual benefits.
The participating schools include Saint Joseph’s Secondary School, DAV Girls College, Ballantine Memorial School, Adi Cakobau School, and Marist Brothers High School.
FNU says through this program, Year 11 students from these schools will visit FNU’s Derrick Campus workshops in Samabula every Friday and during these visits, students will gain hands-on exposure to trade and skills-based programs offered by FNU’s College of Engineering, Technical Vocational Education & Training (CETVET).
They say the initiative aims to help students make informed decisions about their future careers by introducing them to diverse trade pathways and encouraging them to consider TVET as a primary option, rather than a fallback.
They add upon completing the franchise program, students can continue with Year 12 and sit for the Fiji Year 12 examination, enrol at FNU’s Derrick Campus to pursue trade engineering courses at Certificate III or IV levels and enrol in school-based vocational centres to pursue Certificate III level programmes.
FNU says this 24-week pilot program spans three school terms and includes training in both technical and soft skills, and at the conclusion of the program, students will receive Certificates of Participation, evaluated based on attendance, attire, and skill competency.
FNU adds the proposed Dates for TVET First Programme are from 7th March to 25th April 2025 for the first term, 13th June to 1st August 2025 for the second term and 19th September to 7th November 2025 for the third term.
FNU Vice-Chancellor, Professor Unaisi Nabobo-Baba says the TVET First Initiative is a pivotal step in shaping the future of education in Fiji.
Baba says by exposing students to practical skills and career pathways early, we are empowering them to make informed choices and secure sustainable futures.
She says FNU is proud to play a key role in this transformative program.
The program is set to expand to include Maritime Studies, Hospitality, and Tourism, along with other Colleges/Centres under the Fiji National University.
