When Tagbo Nonso Sylvester first stepped into the workshop at the Fiji National University (FNU), he knew immediately this was the opportunity he had travelled thousands of kilometres for — a chance to move beyond hand tools and master the modern machinery shaping the future of joinery and cabinet making.

Sylvester, who already has a Bachelor’s Degree in Banking and Finance is no stranger to hard work. A skilled furniture maker by trade, he has spent years refining his craft in Nigeria. Yet, his decision to enrol in a Certificate IV in Joinery and Cabinet Making at FNU’s College of Engineering and Technical, Vocational, Education and Training (CETVET) reflect a deeper ambition — to elevate his expertise through modern tools and global exposure.

“Joinery is not a widely practised trade in Nigeria, and while I have experience, I lacked the technical knowledge of operating advanced tools and machinery. Coming to Fiji is about building that knowledge and gaining real, hands-on experience,” Sylvester shared.

Tagbo Nonso Sylvester explains the machines used in crafting a detailed roof model.

Inside the CETVET workshop, Sylvester is discovering far more than he expected. From multifunctional woodworking machines that combine sawing, planing, drilling and sanding, to heavy-duty stationary equipment such as panel saws, planers and CNC routers, each lesson is expanding his understanding of the craft.

“I am inspired by the modern technology available here. Learning how these machines operate and understanding their applications allows me to select the right tools, improve productivity and achieve high-quality results,” he said.

For Sylvester, the experience goes beyond technical training. It is about transformation — blending his years of practical experience with structured learning and advanced techniques.

“I want to strengthen my technical knowledge and learn contemporary methods. This qualification will help me raise my standards and broaden my opportunities,” he explained.

“It is like achieving two goals at once. I am gaining practical experience with modern machines. That was one of the key reasons I chose Fiji, as everything is taught in English, unlike some of the other countries I considered,” he said.

Driven, focused and eager to learn, Sylvester embodies the spirit of lifelong education. His journey from Nigeria to Fiji is not just about mastering tools, but about crafting a future where skill, knowledge and determination come together to craft success.

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