Vijay Shankar and his wife.

Vijay Shankar is a living testament that technical and vocational education and training (TVET) offers pathways to higher education learning.

The 38-year-old began his academic journey with a Trade Certificate in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning from the former Fiji Institute of Technology (FIT) and is now pursuing a Postgraduate Diploma in Educational Leadership.

Shankar recently graduated from the Fiji National University (FNU) as part of the first cohort of students from the Bachelor of Education (Specialist in TVET) programme offered by the College of Humanities and Education (CHE).

“I have spent 15 years of my life working as a Senior Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Technician at Mechanical Services Limited, and I am currently working at FNU as an Apprenticeship Officer,” he shared.

“My current role deals directly with training and assessments, so this TVET programme allowed me to gain professional development that will contribute to my daily work practice.”

“I had a very wonderful experience studying at FNU; the training rooms and labs were well set up, and the lecturers provided the support needed.”

“An added advantage is that TVET programmes also have pathways to higher education courses that students can undertake.”

Originally from Bau in Nausori, Shankar credits his wife as the main motivator in his life.

“My wife tells me that nothing is impossible, and everything can be achieved through hard work, commitment, and dedication,” he shared.

Shankar urged students to pursue TVET programmes due to the increasing demand locally and internationally for trade and specialised skills.

Those interested can visit the FNU website on www.fnu.ac.fj for more information on the TVET courses offered at the University.