53 individuals successfully attained the Plumber General Class III qualification from the Fiji National University’s (FNU) National Training and Productivity Centre (NTPC) on Friday, 29 August 2025. This achievement underscores the ongoing commitment to skills development within Fiji’s workforce, particularly in the vital trade sector.

Among the graduates, one was from Tropik Wood Industries Limited in Lautoka, two from Fiji Airports in Nadi, and the remaining 50 from the Water Authority of Fiji (WAF) Nadi depot.

NTPC’s Trade Testing Officer, Richard Gaunavou, who presented the certificates, congratulated all graduates on their accomplishment.

“Education knows no age limit,” Gaunavou stated.

“FNU and NTPC are here to support you throughout your careers with Technical, Vocational, Education, and Training (TVET) programmes that empower individuals to enhance their skills and opportunities.”

The diversity among graduates highlights the programme’s inclusivity and its role in empowering individuals from various backgrounds. Notably, two of the graduates from WAF were women, exemplifying the increasing participation of women in technical trades.

One of these female graduates, Lanieta Taka, a Service Technician at WAF, shared her experience. Having joined WAF as a project staff member in 2014, she was promoted to her current role last year — a position traditionally held by men.

(From left) Water Authority of Fiji’s Senior Human Resource Officer West, Mohammed Museed presents Certificate to Lanieta Taka during the NTPC graduation ceremony in Nadi.

“Being a woman and achieving this qualification is a significant milestone for me,” Taka shared.

“It means a lot to my mother, who has always been my pillar of strength. I am grateful to WAF for supporting my participation in this training, which has helped me upskill myself. It has also motivated me to pursue further certifications, including Class II and I courses.”

WAF Technical Assistant, Etonia Qoro receives his Certificate in Plumber General Class III.

The oldest graduate, 55-year-old Etonia Qoro, who serves as a Technical Assistant at WAF, exemplified the programme’s appeal across all ages. Beginning his career at the Public Works Department (PWD) in 1987 as a labourer, Qoro has steadily advanced through hard work and perseverance.

“It has been a long journey, but I am grateful to WAF for providing opportunities to upgrade my skills,” he said.

“Despite my age, I now hold a university-level qualification — a dream achieved through dedication. I believe this training has truly paid off, and I am proud to be part of an organisation that values continuous learning.”

Additionally, 30-year-old Sowani Sito from Tropik Wood Industries Limited marked a significant milestone. Sito, who previously earned a Certificate in Plumbing and Sheetmetal from Naceva Campus in 2016, spoke about the importance of ongoing education.

Sowani Sito was the only graduate under the Certificate in Plumber General Class III programme from Tropik Wood Industries Limited.

“This qualification will help me progress further in my career,” he affirmed.

“Age is no barrier to learning. I am grateful for NTPC’s courses, which open doors to new opportunities and growth in my trade.”

The success of these graduates highlights the importance of technical education in Fiji’s development. As NTPC continues to deliver high-quality training programmes, the organisation reaffirms its commitment to empowering Fijians with the skills necessary for a prosperous future.

For more information visit the FNU website at http://www.fnu.ac.fj.

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