Fiji’s care-giving industry is set to emerge as a significant standalone sector, driven by the inherent care-giving abilities of its citizens. This opportunity was highlighted 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 is a local institution in Fiji that offers care-giving courses aimed at empowering individuals to engage in this expanding field. Dr. Swartika Nair, the academy’s director, reiterated that their programs are designed to equip community members with vital care-giving skills.
Kamikamica emphasized that care-giving is deeply rooted in Fijian cultural beliefs, showcasing a strong commitment to respecting and caring for the elderly and vulnerable populations. He stated that Fijians possess a natural affinity for care-giving, suggesting that with proper support, the sector could flourish into a robust independent industry.
“We need to diversify the Fijian economy, and we believe the retirement care-giving sector holds great potential in Fiji,” Kamikamica remarked.
Dr. Nair also mentioned that the academy’s Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programs, accredited by the Fiji Higher Education Commission, provide graduates with national qualifications that enhance their professional status.
Numerous graduates have already embarked on careers in care-giving, with recent programs focusing on mental health care and manual handling skills being introduced. These specialized courses aim to address various community needs, further improving Fiji’s care-giving landscape.
The re-launch of the Prestige Skills Training Academy signifies a vital step towards bolstering both domestic and international care-giving sectors.
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