A significant milestone was achieved at the Centre for Appropriate Technology and Development (CATD) in Nadave, with 113 graduates receiving nationally recognized qualifications from the Fiji Higher Education Commission for the first time in forty years. This accomplishment showcases the institution’s dedication to equipping students with vital skills essential for today’s job market.
During the graduation ceremony, Aisake Taito, CEO of the iTaukei Trust Fund Board, celebrated the graduates’ achievements, emphasizing the event as a hallmark of excellence in four primary technical fields: automotive engineering, general carpentry, wiring and fabrication, and plumbing and cementing. Taito remarked, “Today we celebrate the remarkable achievements of 113 talented individuals, a testament to the world-class standards upheld by CATD Nadave.”
Highlighting the cohort’s impressive 96% pass rate, Taito credited this success to the students’ hard work and the high-quality teaching provided by the institution’s trainers. He praised CATD’s innovative training model, which balances 70% practical learning and 30% theoretical understanding, aligning perfectly with Fiji’s developmental needs. This hands-on approach not only enhances the immediate employability of the graduates in both local and international markets but also reflects CATD’s investment in modern training equipment and its collaborations with industries to stay current with market demands.
Similar to previous years, where the graduation marked a historic largest cohort, emphasizing inclusivity in traditionally male-dominated fields, this year’s graduates embody a positive shift towards empowering diverse talent in technical trades. The emphasis on hands-on skills further nurtures a generation prepared to contribute to societal advancements.
This accomplishment not only celebrates the individual successes of the graduates but also instills hope for a brighter future in Fiji, as these qualified professionals are set to play a pivotal role in various sectors, driving innovation and progress in the community.
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