A new career center is being proposed as a strategy to address the labor shortage in Fiji. This initiative, driven by Natural Waters of Viti Pte Limited—known for producing FIJI Water—aims to replicate a successful model implemented in California. Marigold Moody, assistant general counsel for the South Pacific, shared details of the project at the Top Executives Conference 2024 held at the Sofitel Fiji Resort and Spa in Denarau.
Ms. Moody emphasized the project as a significant investment in the local workforce, highlighting the need for skills development amid the ongoing shortage of appropriately skilled Pacific Island seafarers. With FIJI Water investing over FJ$140 million to enhance its operational capacity by approximately 47%, the demand for trained personnel is expected to rise substantially in the coming decade.
The proposed career center is set to be established in Suva in collaboration with Fiji National University, with hopes of launching in 2025. The center will focus on providing training tailored to meet employers’ specific needs, bridging the existing gap in job readiness among candidates. Ms. Moody pointed out that their methodology includes input from education specialists who will design curricula aligned with industry demands.
Moreover, this project aims to foster collaboration within the manufacturing and marine industries, paving the way for an industry council to integrate various stakeholders into the career center’s initiatives.
In summary, the career center is a promising development that not only seeks to alleviate the labor shortage in Fiji but also enhances workforce skills, ensuring that local businesses have access to qualified personnel. This initiative reflects a commitment to building a strong future for the Fijian workforce.
This initiative represents a hopeful step towards empowering the community and bolstering the local economy, demonstrating the potential for growth and innovation in Fiji’s labor market.
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