After a successful graduation of over 200 participants from the Rural Remote Maritime Training-Community-Based Non-Formal Education initiative in Nasautoka last Friday, the National Training Productivity Centre (NTPC) is set to extend its programme to Vanua Levu.
A session is scheduled to take place at Navatu Village in Natewa, furthering its commitment to enhancing workforce skills and productivity across Fiji.
As part of NTPC’s strategic goal to increase accessibility to training and development for all for all Fijians, this move will bring industry-relevant courses closer to individuals in the Northern Division.
Villagers from more than eight communities took part in the programme, with the oldest participant being 72-year-old Vika Delaitubuna, and the youngest, 14-year-old Viliame Laverua. Of the graduates, 104 were male and 109 were female.
Vika Delaitubuna, the eldest participant, said, at her age, she was fortunate to be part of the programme and thanked FNU for the opportunity. “This is my first ever certificate, and it’s a university certificate,” she said.
“Age should never be a barrier to education, and I encourage women, mothers, and teens to seize such opportunities because now education is brought right to our doorsteps.”
Meanwhile, youngest participant, 14-year-old Viliame Laverua, who completed a Basic Cookery course, thanked his family for their support during the two-week programme.
“I’m thankful to be part of this training. I’ve been working in hotels as a chef’s ’s assistant after dropping out of school and now, I can proudly take this certificate with me as one of my greatest achievements when I return to work,” he said.
Sikeli Waqatairewa, FNU’s Business Manager for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Pasifika & NTPC, highlighted that the programme, which offers more than 10 courses, is tailored to meet the specific needs of the community.
“The two-week programme is designed to equip participants with skills that can help them start businesses and sustain themselves,” he said.
Participants travelled from as far as Navua and Naitasiri to attend the training.
Waqatairewa further announced that the NTPC team will be visiting Vanua Levu next, with a session planned for Navatu Village in Natewa.
“I invite communities near Navatu and all interested individuals from Vanua Levu to register for the programme and join us in large numbers when we arrive,” he said.
By delivering courses in Vanua Levu, NTPC aims to bridge skill gaps, and provide accessible, quality education without the need for participants to travel to Viti Levu.
Registration details and programme schedules will be announced soon. Individuals interested in participating are encouraged to contact NTPC on 339 4000 Ext 4850 for more information.
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