FNU’s TCF students during a practical class.

Interested students who wish to study a technical and vocational education and training (TVET) course have various options available to them at the Fiji National University’s (FNU), Technical College of Fiji, says academic Salabogi Mavoa.

College of Vocational Education and Training (CVET), Acting Dean Salabogi Mavoa said students aged 17 and above who applied for a TCF course were also eligible for tuition sponsorship by the Tertiary Scholarship and Loans Board (TSLB).

“FNU is a dual-sector University that offers both vocational education and training and higher education programmes to our local and regional students,” Mavoa said.

“This ensures we provide affordable and accessible education at various levels of learning and qualifications.”

“We have 11 courses offered through TCF and students who apply for these programmes can also apply for TSLB scholarship before 24 January. There are limited scholarships available with TSLB and it is on a first-come-first-served basis. Students should take advantage of this offer and apply to TSLB before the deadline.”

Mavoa said the following TCF courses were available at University centres and/or major campuses around the country.

1. Certificate II in Agriculture
2. Certificate II in Automotive Electrical, Electronics
3. Certificate II in Automotive Mechanic
4. Certificate II in Baking and Patisserie
5. Certificate II in Body Works and Spray Painting
6. Certificate II in Cabinet Making and Joinery
7. Certificate II in Carpentry
8. Certificate II in Cookery
9. Certificate II in Electrical Fitter Mechanic
10. Certificate II in Plumbing, Sheet Metal
11. Certificate II in Welding and Fabrication

“We want to encourage students who may not be able to finish high school, or even those who wish to branch off into a specialised vocational field to apply at the earliest to both FNU and TSLB to ensure they are registered in our systems,” Mavoa said.

“TVET is never a second option or after-thought for those pursuing studies after primary and high school. The specialised skills students learn in a particular field makes them highly sought after in their respective industries.”

“Students who study at FNU through our TCF courses also have the opportunity to upskill themselves by taking further studies in certificate and trade courses in the same or related fields.”

Mavoa said despite the financial and social challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic and the recent Cyclone Yasa, students still had opportunities to study and be financially supported at FNU.

“We encourage students to apply now, learn a skill, work and be able to financially contribute to their families.”