Recent maritime casualties in the past few weeks have raised serious concerns, highlighting the need for improved maritime safety and skills training in coastal communities and the Village members of Narikoso and nearby villagers in Ono will conduct a 5-day Boat Master training to curb this.
Villagers from Narikoso in Ono, Kadavu, are looking forward to a five-day Boat Master Training Programme aimed at strengthening maritime skills and safety awareness.
The training is expected to contribute directly to safer sea operations for fishermen and transport operators in the district.
This was highlighted by Ministry of Fisheries and Forestry officer Viniana Rasuaki, who is based in Kavala, Kadavu.
Rasuaki says the proposed training will provide much-needed certification and practical knowledge to participants from the seven villages within the Ono District.
She noted that the programme will equip community members with formal qualifications and enhance their capacity to effectively monitor and protect their qoliqoli areas, particularly in addressing illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing activities.
According to Rasuaki, the importance of this training cannot be overstated.
She says given the geographical isolation of the Ono District, access to certified maritime training opportunities is often limited.
She says bringing the programme directly to Narikoso Village reflects a practical and inclusive approach that will ensure wider participation and greater impact across the district.
Rasuaki also stressed that the training will create opportunities for participants, especially young people, to become more actively involved in fisheries-related activities and other maritime ventures, contributing to increased household income and stronger community resilience.
She added that the initiative is expected to deliver long-term benefits to the people of Ono District while strengthening maritime safety, sustainability, and productivity throughout the region.The Boat Master Training Programme will be held next week.
