Fiji’s caregiving industry is on the verge of becoming an independent sector, largely due to the inherent caregiving abilities of Fijians. This insight was shared by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, Manoa Kamikamica, during the re-launch of the Prestige Skills Training Academy.
The Prestige Skills Training Academy, a local institution in Fiji, provides caregiving courses aimed at equipping individuals to thrive in this expanding field. Dr. Swartika Nair, the academy’s director, highlighted that their programs focus on empowering community members by imparting vital caregiving skills.
Deputy Prime Minister Kamikamica noted that caregiving is in harmony with Fijian cultural traditions that emphasize respect and care for the elderly and vulnerable. He indicated that Fijians possess an innate ability for caregiving, and with proper support, this sector could transform into a significant standalone industry.
“We need to diversify the Fijian economy, and we believe the retirement caregiving sector holds great potential in Fiji,” he stated.
Dr. Nair further mentioned that the academy’s Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) courses, which are accredited by the Fiji Higher Education Commission, grant graduates national qualifications, thereby enhancing their professional recognition.
Numerous graduates have already begun their careers in the caregiving industry, with new programs recently launched in areas such as mental health care and manual handling skills. These specialized courses aim to meet various needs within Fijian communities, thereby enriching the caregiving landscape across the nation.
The re-launch of the Prestige Skills Training Academy is anticipated to play a significant role in strengthening both domestic and international caregiving markets.
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