Health Minister assures medical graduates of employment

Health Minister assures medical graduates of employment

Minister for Health Dr Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu has reassured medical students that they will be employed upon graduation.

His comments come after fijivillage News questioned him about concerns raised by some medical students that there may not be enough employment opportunities when they complete their studies.

When asked whether the Ministry would seek additional funding in the upcoming National Budget to cover overtime payments for health workers, Dr Lalabalavu said one of the Ministry's priorities is to ensure remuneration, overtime, and allowances are adequately provided for in next year's budget.

Meanwhile, a 22-year-old medical graduate from Ba, who wished to remain anonymous, told fijivillage News that he graduated in December last year and has been waiting nearly six months for a government posting, despite completing his studies under a scholarship programme in a medical field.

He says the uncertainty has been frustrating, particularly because newly graduated doctors spend years developing clinical skills that can diminish without regular practice.

The 2026/2027 National Budget will be delivered at 10am next Friday.

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