To gain an insight into the challenges faced by students from the 14 provinces, the first ever consultation with the Provincial Councils organised by the Higher Education Commission Fiji is currently underway at the Southern Cross Hotel.
All 14 provinces were represented at this consultation including representatives from Rotuma and Rabi Island.
While opening the consultation, Minister for Education Aseri Radrodro says this event signifies the commitment to working together to address the pressing issues of the exodus of our skilled professionals, advancing solutions through education intended for the betterment of the community.
Radrodro says the exodus of skill professionals are happening right at our door steps and we should ask ourselves what are we doing as the Vanua to address the exodus of our young people.
He adds this has caused villages to empty with less youths and people to do the village work and this should be addressed urgently and decisively.
The Minister says people are leaving for various reasons including higher wages, better career opportunities, better working conditions and the perceived lack of opportunities right here in Fiji.
Radrodro says migration is a complex and inevitable phenomenon, and while we cannot completely halt the movement of people seeking better prospects abroad, we can address it proactively.
He adds recognising that we may not always compete in salary package offered overseas, we must focus on alternative approach that can benefit both the local workforce and contribute to global labour pool.
