A total of 59 career teachers from 55 schools across the Central Division were reminded of their vital role in shaping students’ futures, with a strong call to guide learners in choosing subjects that align with their career aspirations rather than simply chasing high grades.

The message, delivered during a targeted professional development session by the Fiji National University’s(FNU) Pro Vice-Chancellor of Learning and Teaching, Professor Jimaima Lako, at the Career Teachers’ Workshop (CTW) held yesterday at the university’s Nasinu campus.

“Your role extends beyond teaching subjects – it involves shaping minds, instilling values, and preparing students for a world full of opportunities and challenges. This workshop serves as a platform for knowledge sharing, idea exchange, and the development of new strategies to enhance career guidance for our students,” Professor Lako stated.

She emphasised that the global landscape is rapidly evolving, with constant changes in the job market driven by emerging industries, new technologies, and shifting skill demands.

“Our students rely on us to help them navigate this complex environment. Career education is no longer an optional service in schools—it is an essential component. It involves helping students recognise their strengths, explore their passions, and align their abilities with the opportunities available to them,” she said.

Ministry of Education Principal Education Officer – TEST, Aminiasi Voresara urged career teachers to take their responsibilities seriously.

“This role is not simply a box to tick or a task to complete—it carries influence and responsibility. As career educators, you are at the forefront of a vital mission. Our national education goal is clear: ‘Empowering Fiji’s Future’. This means our students must be supported, guided, and empowered—not dismissed or criticised,” Voresara said.

“Beginning in Term 2 this year, career education will be introduced in Years 7 and 8 to sow the seeds of informed decision-making early on. Proper guidance at this stage is essential. We will also implement new career reporting templates, ensuring all career education activities are documented moving forward.

He highlighted the importance of timely and effective career guidance, especially when students are full of ambition yet uncertain about their paths.

“In addition, we will share key thematic areas of career education to be incorporated from Years 9 to 13. At present, career lessons are primarily offered from Year 11 onwards. This must be expanded to ensure a seamless and coherent career transition for students.” He concluded by emphasising the pivotal role of career teachers in shaping not only individual futures but the future of the nation.

“Career education is a cornerstone of effective schooling. You are not just educators—you are navigators, connectors, and mentors. Your influence determines the trajectory of our students’ futures and, ultimately, the direction of our nation.”

William Cross College career teacher Tiere Dawn Seru said the workshop was informative which ensures that students are well prepared and equipped for the future .

“I am excited to share what I learned with the students from this workshop. It is important for the students to know FNU programmes and requirements and most importantly advice them on the subject combinations that they should study in order to follow the career path they want to follow,” Seru said.

“To engage students in choosing their career pathways I am required to carefully plan a way to engage students to provide career charts and videos or slides that will showcase the different programmes that they can study at FNU.”

The workshop continues today, with a focussed session dedicated to special education teachers.