Associate Dean TVET CAFF, Dr Ilisoni Leweniqila with students from Ratu Kadavulevu School.
Koronivia, Fiji – While many students may be uncertain about their future or believe there are limited opportunities beyond secondary school, the Fiji National University (FNU) delivered a powerful message during National TVET and Enterprising Week: There is always a pathway—and your future is in your hands.
As part of the week-long celebrations, Associate Dean TVET at the College of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (CAFF), Dr Ilisoni Leweniqila, led a school outreach campaign. He visited students at Ratu Kadavulevu School and Sigatoka Methodist College, promoting the value of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and the life-changing opportunities it provides.
Inspiring Hope Through Practical Pathways
Dr Leweniqila urged students to explore TVET as a viable and empowering route to success.
“Many students think that if they don’t get into academic degree programmes, they’ve run out of options. That’s simply not true,” he said. “TVET is a powerful alternative that equips you with the skills to enter the workforce or even become your own boss.”
He emphasised that higher education was not the only route to success, and that TVET offers a practical, hands-on approach to learning that leads directly to employment or entrepreneurship.
In line with the theme “Empowering the Future, Unlocking Youth Skills for a Resilient Fiji,” Dr Leweniqila reminded students that Fiji’s development relies heavily on skilled professionals, not just academics.
“Fiji needs builders, farmers, engineers, chefs, caregivers, and creators,” he said. “And our young people have the power to step into those roles if they take up the many TVET options available.”
He also encouraged students facing academic challenges or financial difficulties not to lose hope.
“There are scholarships available, flexible entry points, and strong support systems. No one should feel left behind. There is a place for everyone in the world of work, TVET can take you there.”
Looking Ahead
With an increasing demand for skilled workers both locally and abroad, Dr Leweniqila’s message to students was clear: “Whether it’s planting crops, building homes, designing garments, managing a kitchen, or maintaining machines, FNU’s TVET graduates are making real differences in their families, their communities, and our country.”
FNU’s commitment to promoting TVET goes beyond just one week, it’s part of an ongoing mission to create brighter futures through skill-based education.
What is TVET?
Technical and Vocational Education and Training is designed to give students real-world, job-ready skills. These are skills that matter in everyday life and in the workforce: from agriculture, mechanics, electrical work, and hospitality, to carpentry, early childhood education, construction, fashion design, welding, and more.
At FNU, TVET is not a second option, it is a respected, dynamic, and empowering choice, especially for students who prefer hands-on learning, want to give back to their communities, or are looking to enter the workforce quickly and confidently.
FNU delivers TVET programmes through all its colleges and across all campuses nationwide.
From foundational certificates to advanced diplomas, all FNU TVET qualifications are accredited and aligned with industry demands. Students gain both technical theory and real-life experience through internships, practicum, and on-campus training units like farms, kitchens, workshops, and clinical labs.
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