Forty-four participants successfully graduated from a comprehensive training program focused on tree harvesting and portable sawmill operations last week in Sese Village, Saqani, Cakaudrove. This intensive three-week course was designed to equip local residents with essential skills in sustainable forestry and timber processing.
Facilitated by the Fiji Forestry Training Centre, the program provided expert instruction on manual harvesting techniques, sawmill operation, and effective forest management. This initiative is part of a broader strategy aimed at enhancing local employment opportunities and promoting responsible forestry practices within the region. Graduates are expected to significantly contribute to sustainable forestry methods and boost local economic growth as they return to their communities.
This endeavor aligns with similar initiatives across Fiji that focus on skill development and community empowerment. For instance, recently, members of cooperatives in Narocake and Muana-i-Ra participated in a training program centered on governance and resource sustainability, demonstrating a collective movement toward enhancing local economies through knowledge-sharing and community-driven projects.
Moreover, retirees like Malakai Sevudredre, a former forestry expert, continue to advance sustainable forestry practices, further stressing the importance of continuous education and advocacy in this sector. With the government increasing funding for forestry-based cottage industries through programs like the Forest Subsidy Programme, there is growing optimism about the future of sustainable forestry in Fiji.
As these graduates join the workforce armed with new skills, they embody a hopeful narrative for the future of Saqani and surrounding areas, where sustainable practices can lead to a greener and more prosperous environment for all. The ongoing commitment to education and collaboration in forestry not only furthers economic objectives but also fosters environmental stewardship, ensuring a healthier planet for future generations.
Leave a comment