Ministry of Education committed to enhance TVET Programs

The prioritisation of TVET is a educational strategy and the Ministry of Education is committed to enhancing the quality and accessibility of these programs.

Minister for Education, Aseri Radrodro stressed this during the National TVET Forum at the FNU Namaka Campus in Nadi this morning.

Radrodro says the theme “TVET in Fiji, Focus on the Future”, resonates with the aspirations and dreams, where skills, innovation, and knowledge empower every Fijian to contribute meaningfully to our society and economy.

The Minister says Fiji faces a significant skills gap that must be bridged, there is a mismatch between the skills the workforce possesses and those required by the market.

He says addressing this gap is not merely an economic imperative but a social one, as it affects the livelihoods of the citizens and the competitiveness of our industries.

Radrodro says TVET in Fiji has made significant progress over the years, but we must acknowledge that there is still much to be done to build a more robust, dynamic and responsive framework that meets the needs of not just our evolving economy but the global economy.

He says employers play a pivotal role in addressing TVET challenges as their involvement is crucial in shaping curricula that reflect real-world demands.

The Minister says by fostering partnerships with industries, they ensure that our training programmes are aligned with market needs, enhancing graduates.

He says employers need to continue to engage actively, providing insights, opportunities for apprenticeships, and on-the-job training.

Radrodro says the Fiji National University stands at the forefront of our TVET efforts as one of the largest providers of TVET education not just in Fiji but the Pacific region.

He further says by bringing together stakeholders from various sectors, FNU helps in creating industry-relevant programmes that meet the economic needs.

The Minister says FNU is also instrumental in conducting research, developing new training modules, and setting standards that elevate the quality of TVET in Fiji.

Radrodro adds that the inclusivity of women and people with disabilities in the TVET program is vital to ensure their participation enriches the workforce and drives innovation.

He adds this gathering is a testament to a collective commitment to transforming TVET in Fiji and a journey towards a brighter, more prosperous future hinges on the strides we make in this critical area of education.