The Pacific Centre for Maritime Studies (PCMS) today celebrated the graduation of 18 WWF-sponsored deckhand students under its Deckhand Fishing Programme, including four women and seven graduates working in Fiji’s tuna fishing industry.
The event, held at the PCMS Maritime Hall in Suva, was attended by proud families, industry partners, and supporters from the offshore fisheries sector, recognising the graduates’ achievements and the growing emphasis on responsible, conservation-driven careers in Fiji’s maritime and fishing industry.
“Today marks not just the end of a chapter but the beginning of an exciting journey. Today, 18 of you are graduating. As deckhands, you are stepping into a profession that is steeped in tradition, hard work, and adventure. The skills you have acquired here will serve as your foundation, and I encourage you to build upon them with enthusiasm and a commitment to lifelong learning,” Captain Hanre said.
“I also want to highlight that Pillar 1 of Fiji National University’s 2024-2026 Strategic Plan focuses on Education for Employability. As you transition into the workforce, your success will be a testament to this goal. Alongside the PCMS team, we are proud to have been part of your journey.”
Captain Hanre reminded the students that as deckhands, they will play an essential role on board, ensuring the safety of the vessel, assisting with navigation, and working as a vital part of a team.
WWF-Pacific’s Interim Fiji Conservation Programme Manager, Duncan Williams, congratulated the graduates, highlighting their role in advancing sustainability.
“As you begin or continue your journeys at sea, remember that your knowledge is power — and your actions matter. You are the next generation of ocean stewards, ready to lead with purpose and pride,” he said.
Since 2019, the Deckhand Fishing Programme has trained 163 deckhands and 19 offshore skippers mainly through funding from WWF.
This latest cohort also benefitted from full scholarships covering tuition, meals, and travel made possible through the Safeguarding Nesting Populations of Sea Turtles in Fiji project. Funded by WWF-UK, the initiative is delivered in collaboration with PCMS, the Fiji Fishing Industry Association, and the Ministry of Fisheries.
As Fiji’s longline industry continues to face challenges with shark and turtle bycatch with over 6,700 shark encounters and 150 turtle gear interactions recorded between 2018–2020 and this programme ensures that deckhands are equipped with practical tools and conservation ethics to reduce these impacts out at sea.
With fresh certificates in hand and a sea of opportunity ahead, the 18 graduates now stand ready to make waves in both industry and conservation.
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