NTPC committed to producing quality Apprentices

Press Release Posted On: March 9, 2021

Awardees with Chief Guest Kameli Batiweti after successfully completing their program.

The Fiji National University’s (FNU) National Training and Productivity Centre (NTPC) is committed to training individuals to become highly skilled and qualified tradesmen who positively impact the country’s economy.

NTPC recognised the hard work and commitment of the seven students awarding them with trophies and certificates in the ten different categories during the launch of the 58th Anniversary of the National Apprenticeship Scheme at FNU Narere Campus on Monday.

Paul Elisha Lagilagi Naivaluvou, who scooped the Overall Best Apprentice of the Year 2020 award, said the National Apprenticeship Scheme laid the platform for him to launch a successful career.

Overall Best Apprentice of the Year 2020 Paul Elisha Lagilagi Naivaluvou with his parents after the award ceremony.

“I undertook the Plant Maintenance Engineering Certificate four-level, and it was an enriching journey for me. I am overwhelmed with receiving the top award. All the sleepless nights and endless hours at work has finally paid off,” the 26-year-old said.

The National Apprentice and Trade Test Manager Alvin Lal said NTPC has successfully trained 8796 under the scheme, which started in 1963.

“We have 275 apprentices currently in training, and three have just completed their training this year. There are 22 trade levels and seven technician levels. We have more than 35 employers who have been continuously recruiting and training apprentices,” Lal said.

“This year, we have seen an increase in the number of employers interested in joining the scheme and also an increasing interest from Year 12 and 13 students.”

Director NTPC Dr Isimeli Tagicakiverata said the Apprenticeship Scheme had its share of challenges over the last 12 months, the main one being the impact of COVID-19 on the industry in Fiji.

“Despite the challenges, many employers have continued with the scheme because they can see the great value in terms of skills, competence, adaptability, and job-readiness of apprentices, as compared to non-apprentices,” said Dr Tagicakiverata.

Chief Guest and Chief Executive Officer of Fiji Commerce & Employers Federation, Kameli Batiweti congratulated the apprentices who completed the programme. He encouraged everyone to continue to pursue excellence in their career.

“It is a proud day for you and your families as today, we celebrate your achievements and congratulate you on your dedication and hard work. We also acknowledge the joint efforts made by the Fiji National University’s various Colleges, the National Training and Productivity Centre, Government, and your employers. Through this partnership, the apprenticeship scheme has successfully produced quality tradespeople for Fiji’s workforce,” he said.

“Despite the COVID Pandemic outbreak last year, NTPC still managed to register 49 new apprentices. I want to thank the various industries that continue to invest in the National Apprenticeship Scheme as they make valuable contributions to the skills development of Fiji’s workforce.”

NTPC is hoping to recruit at least 150 new apprentices this year.