Fiji’s care-giving industry is poised to evolve into a standalone sector, leveraging the inherent care-giving abilities of its people. This potential was acknowledged by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME), Manoa Kamikamica, during the re-launch of the Prestige Skills Training Academy.
The academy provides care-giving courses aimed at empowering Fijians to embark on careers in this expanding field. Director Dr. Swartika Nair highlighted the institution’s mission to equip community members with vital care-giving skills.
Kamikamica pointed out that care-giving practices resonate with Fijian cultural values, particularly the respect and care extended towards the elderly and vulnerable populations. He noted that Fijians possess an innate ability for care-giving and, with sufficient support, the sector could emerge as a significant industry in Fiji.
“We need to diversify the Fijian economy, and we believe that the retirement care-giving sector has substantial potential in Fiji,” Kamikamica stated.
Dr. Nair explained that the academy’s Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) courses are accredited by the Fiji Higher Education Commission, ensuring that graduates receive recognized national qualifications.
Several graduates have already started careers in the care-giving field, with new programs in mental health care and manual handling skills being introduced. These specialized training options are expected to meet a variety of community needs, further advancing Fiji’s care-giving framework.
The re-launch of the Prestige Skills Training Academy holds promise for enhancing both domestic and international care-giving opportunities.
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