Having spent several years in the workforce, Sonal Sanjesh Prasad of Tuatua, Labasa is elated to be given the opportunity to attain a professional qualification in his field of work.
Prasad, who is an Apprentice Electrical Technician at Energy Fiji Limited (EFL), is grateful to his employer for allowing him to pursue Diploma in Electrical Engineering at Fiji National University’s (FNU) College of Engineering, Science and Technology (CEST).
“I want to sincerely acknowledge EFL for allowing me to be one of their apprentices. Not only this but also giving precedence to studies over my work, which has enabled me to do well in my studies,” said Prasad.
“I consider this programme as a stepping stone to a successful career in the field of electrical engineering. Everything that I have learnt so far in this programme is directly assisting me in carrying out my daily work more effectively.”
The Labasa man joined the workforce as an Electronics/Instruments Apprentice at Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC) Labasa Mill and was later promoted to Instrument Fitter. He has also worked as a Boiler Operator in training at the Labasa Mill. Later, he joined EFL and is currently in the third year of the apprenticeship program.
The budding apprentice describes his career as rewarding.
“This field of work makes me feel satisfied because of various reasons. I get to visit and work at a new site almost every day, which also enables me to learn something new each day. I am not stuck behind a desk and a computer, instead I get to work in a refreshing environment.”
“Trying to find solutions to some issues can be quite challenging at times but in the end, customer satisfaction feels delightful and motivates me to strive for better results in a shorter period.”
Prasad highlighted that keeping health and safety in check was a vital aspect of carrying out his work effectively.
“Electrical technology requires strong attention and could be hazardous if work is not carried out according to the established guidelines. This requires extra caution but also makes work even more interesting.”
Prasad thanked the lecturers at FNU, especially Roneel Maharaj, for the continuous guidance and support in his studies.
“Through the guidance of lecturers at FNU, I was able to plan, structure, wire up and carry out testing required for the desired outcomes – all by using electrical equipment and this feels wonderful. It feels even more satisfying when I can apply these concepts at work by myself.”
He also acknowledged his mother, wife and relatives for being the pillars of strength in his life.
“I dedicate my career achievements to my mum, mentors at FSC, EFL and the HR Training Team as well,” he added.
The Fiji National University will host its Virtual Open Week between September 13 to 17. The week-long online event will provide students, parents and guardians with an opportunity to learn about the wide range of study programmes available in Higher Education and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) at FNU, speak with academic experts on career pathways, participate in quizzes and win attractive prizes. For more information regarding the FNU Virtual Open Week visit www.fnu.ac.fj