Vishant Chand.
Flipping through the newspapers during the weekends and seeing many vacancies in the construction industry prompted Vishant Chand to pursue studies in carpentry at the Fiji National University (FNU) next year.
The current Year 13 student at Ba Sangam College said he was excited to receive his Offer Letter for a Certificate in Carpentry (Level 4) programme to be undertaken at FNU’s Ba campus.
“I felt happy to receive my offer letter and be on a pathway to learning the skills and knowledge required to work as a proficient carpenter in the booming construction industry. I have observed that the demand for carpenters is on the rise,” he said.
Offered through FNU’s College of Engineering, Science & Technology (CEST), students who enrol in the course will have the chance to learn carpentry fundamentals. Students will also gain knowledge on topics such as Properties of Timber, Trade Calculation, Construction Drawing, Introduction to Communication Literacy, Workshop and Power Tool Safety, General Scaffolding, Levelling and Site Establishment, Clearance and Demolition.
“I have always been interested in skilled-based and innovative education, and carpentry is the right choice. After completing my education, I will be a trained and skilled craftsman and will be able to work in construction and renovation projects,” Chand said.
“I know I will have full job satisfaction because I will have the opportunity to do hands-on work. I don’t like sitting at a desk and staring at computer screens. After completing my programme, I know I will have the opportunity to build and create something with my own hands. And the plus point is that every project and every day will be unique,” he adds.
Chand is confident that he will be able to find employment quickly after completing his studies.
“FNU programmes have a practical component, and I will be job ready right after graduation. I have discovered that the construction industry faces a workforce shortage because of many factors.”
“Currently, there aren’t enough skilled carpenters employed to handle the demands of all the many projects taking place across the nation. Carpenters and other craft professions are in high demand; therefore, there are many opportunities, better job stability, and better benefits available in these fields.”
The Ba lad wants to leave a legacy and said that a carpentry career offers him a chance to make a difference in other people’s lives.
“When I work in construction, the things I produce will help the community in the long run. In those homes, families will grow, and students will learn in schools. The gyms, churches, and businesses will transform lives.”
“The tasks you might do in a matter of months could last for the next century or beyond. You might have a small but crucial role to play in people’s most memorable moments or important events,” he said.
Apply Now
FNU is accepting applications for Semester 1, 2023 studies.
Students interested in joining TVET courses at FNU can Apply Now for one of the 4,600 placements available through the Tertiary Scholarships and Loans Service (TSLS).
Eligible students must obtain a pass in Year 12, Certificate I, Certificate II or secure a final offer letter for any Certificate Level III, IV or Diploma level 5 programmes offered at FNU.
For ease in admission and registration, FNU has dedicated Enrolment Centres to serve new and continuing students at the Nasinu, Derrick, Koronivia, Ba, Natabua, Namaka and Labasa campuses.
These centres have staff available to assist students with enrolment, IT requirements, and selection of study options.
For further information, students can visit our website at www.fnu.ac.fj, email the Academic Team via admission@fnu.ac.fj or Text (Toll-Free) 857 for Vodafone and Inkk users.