Fiji’s caregiving industry is on the verge of establishing itself as a separate sector, fueled by the innate caregiving abilities of its people. This perspective was shared 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 Prestige Skills Training Academy, a local institution in Fiji offering caregiving courses, aims to empower individuals to pursue opportunities in this expanding field. Dr. Swartika Nair, the academy’s director, highlighted that their programs are designed to equip community members with vital caregiving skills.
Kamikamica noted that the caregiving profession resonates with Fijian cultural values, which emphasize respect and care for the elderly and vulnerable populations. He expressed confidence in the natural aptitude of Fijians for caregiving, suggesting that with proper support, it could evolve into a significant independent industry.
“We need to diversify the Fijian economy, and we believe that the retirement caregiving sector holds great potential in Fiji,” Kamikamica stated.
Dr. Nair further mentioned that the academy’s Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) courses are accredited by the Fiji Higher Education Commission, granting graduates national qualifications and professional recognition. Many alumni have already joined the caregiving workforce, with new programs focused on mental health care and manual handling skills.
These specialized initiatives are anticipated to meet various needs within Fiji’s communities, thereby enriching the caregiving landscape throughout the nation. The re-launch of the Prestige Skills Training Academy is poised to significantly impact both local and international caregiving markets.
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