Despite having more than two decades left before retirement, school teacher Waisea Nacou Cikaitoga has put his future plans in motion by learning a new trade skill, which he believes will carry him and his family long after he completes his current 8 to 5 job.

Cikaitoka joined Fiji National University (FNU) to undertake the Cabinet Making and Joinery programme offered by National Training and Productivity (NTPC).

The 30-year-old has been in the teaching profession for the past 10 years and has excelled in his role. Yet, the thought of earning after retirement has motivated him to join National University’s (FNU) National Training and Productivity (NTPC) Cabinet Making and Joinery program this year.

Cikaitoga, who is originally from Viria, Naitasiri, said he wanted to acquire trade skills as it would enable him to work on projects after retirement and earn an income.

“I have been teaching English and Vosa Vakaviti (Vernacular), and I feel proud of my job, which requires me to educate our younger generation. However, I chose to learn Cabinet Making and Joinery skills because I wanted to attain a certificate through this trade and learn multiple skills for future survival, ” Cikaitoga said.

The 30-year-old said he will start with small projects around the house to sharpen his newly acquired skills. Cikaitoga, with 10 years of teaching experience, believes it’s important to maintain an active life after retirement.

“I believe that white-collar jobs will end at the age of 55, but if I gain knowledge of trade jobs, it will help me survive until the very end,” he said.

“After completing this programme, I will be able to repair my own house and I will be able to earn a living after my retirement. I will also be able to share the knowledge and skills to help my relatives back in the village.”

During his leisure time, he enjoys undertaking minor carpentry projects such as building shelves, shoe and television racks. There is also a great demand for tradespeople and I hope to fulfil the dreams of homeowners by working on joinery projects and giving them an elegant finish. ”

“The short course skills training provided by NTPC is of high quality in terms of service delivery. Students take advantage of the services offered by this school because they are both informative and helpful. Guidance and assistance from lecturers and tutors also help knowledge to be effectively imparted to students. ”

The school teacher encouraged others to take up trades as one day they could become successful entrepreneurs.

“I encourage others in the community to join trade courses such as carpentry, mechanics, and joinery. It has an interesting future because once you have gained all the skills and knowledge, it would not take you long to become your own boss. ”

Interested students and stakeholders can learn more about FNU’s TVET courses by visiting https://www.fnu.ac.fj/tvet-pasifika/

Prospective students can also text on 857 or email on admission@fnu.ac.fj if they face difficulties completing the process online or need further information on enrolment. For enquiries relating to NTPC programmes email info.ntpc@fnu.ac.fj.