Marika Raloga, a 19-year-old from Makadru Village in Matuku, Lau, has recently completed a significant milestone by graduating from the Deckhand Fishing Mini Programme at the Pacific Centre for Marine Studies (PCMS) in Suva. This programme, aimed at equipping Fijian youths with vital skills for the fishing and marine sectors, is integral to enhancing both the local economy and food security in Fiji.
The journey to graduation was challenging for Raloga, who faced several obstacles during his education, chiefly due to limited access to resources from his remote island. He expressed profound gratitude for the support he received from the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), which assisted with transportation, food, and other costs, enabling him and his classmates to complete their training. “Without them, I wouldn’t have made it here,” Raloga said, highlighting the importance of community support in education.
His graduation is a hopeful sign not just for himself, but also represents a broader effort to cultivate a skilled workforce in the maritime sector. With his certificate in hand, Raloga is eager to take his newfound skills to the open sea, where he hopes to work and continue learning while supporting his family. “That’s where I want to be—working, learning more, and supporting my family,” he noted.
This development aligns with other initiatives aimed at empowering young Fijians in the maritime industry, similar to the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji’s program designed to provide essential skills to school dropouts, ensuring a pathway to stable employment. The concerted focus on youth training and job readiness reflects a positive shift towards addressing workforce sustainability and economic resilience in Fiji.
The hard work and determination demonstrated by Raloga and his peers underscore the potential for personal and community growth through education. Their stories serve as inspirations to other young people facing challenges, emphasizing that with resilience and support, a brighter future is within reach.
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