Avikash Prasad.

Fiji National University (FNU) graduate Avikash Prasad believes Technical and Vocational Educational and Training (TVET) enhances employment opportunities and creates competitiveness in various sectors of the economy.

Prasad, who is a Senior Technician – Auto Electrician at Carpenters Motors in Lautoka, is a graduate from the TVET stream programme Certificate IV in Automotive Engineering, which is offered by FNU’s College of Engineering, Science and Technology (CEST).

After completing secondary education, the 28-year old was encouraged by his family to pursue a career in the Automotive sector.

“Considering the job opportunities and my interest to have a career in this sector, I decided to enrol in this programme and I must admit that I have never once regretted my decision of pursuing a career in this profession.”

The former Khalsa College student from Ba specialises in the installation and maintenance of electrical systems in automotive vehicles.

“The profession is particularly interesting and exciting as there is something new to learn every day.”

“In the last eight years of my career in the automotive industry, I have had the opportunity to observe, learn and upgrade my skills from the assistance rendered to me by my work colleagues.”

Prasad believes it is the practical sessions of the TVET programmes that make an enormous difference in producing competent trainees with the necessary skills, knowledge and attitudes relevant to the market.

“TVET programmes not only equips us with qualifications that respond to the realities of the labour market but it also furnishes us with lifelong skills sets, which enables graduates to even become entrepreneurs.”

He said studying in an environment which prepares you to dive into action on your first day of work enables you to become a better competitor for the job opportunities available in the different sectors.

Prasad dedicates his career achievements to his mother, who has been the pillar of motivation in his life.

“I always watched my mother work so hard so that there was no interruption in my education and this enthused me to work harder towards having a successful career,” he added.