The Ministry of Employment in Fiji is taking significant steps to improve regulations governing overseas workers following concerns regarding the qualifications of incoming labor. Minister Agni Deo Singh highlighted that many applicants have misrepresented their skills, which has posed challenges for employers who depend on a competent workforce.
The focus particularly involves unskilled workers from Bangladesh, leading the Ministry to collaborate closely with relevant agencies to authenticate the qualifications of applicants prior to their arrival in Fiji. Singh mentioned that some local companies have found it necessary to initiate additional training for overseas workers to facilitate their smooth transition into the Fijian labor market.
To strengthen the process, Singh remarked, “We are also working on how we can manage these agencies that source workers from Bangladesh, to ensure that they are authentic.” This initiative is geared towards protecting both the credibility of the recruitment procedures and meeting the operational demands of Fijian businesses.
In partnership with the Department of Immigration, the Ministry is ensuring that every foreign worker arrives with verified and legitimate qualifications. The Indian High Commissioner to Fiji, Suneet Mehta, brought attention to the eMigrate portal, which plays a crucial role in confirming the skills of potential workers, assuring that only those who align with workforce requirements will be issued work permits.
This proactive strategy reflects Fiji’s ongoing commitment to improving labor practices and the overall quality of the workforce. By imposing stricter regulations concerning worker qualifications, Fiji aims to cultivate a more dependable and skilled labor pool.
The determined efforts from the Fijian government and related authorities paint a hopeful outlook for future working conditions and job opportunities, promoting a more effective collaboration between employers and foreign employees. Through these enhancements, Fiji has the potential to create a stable environment that not only drives economic growth but also ensures satisfaction among workers.
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