The Ministry of Employment in Fiji is enhancing regulations for overseas workers after it was discovered that many lack the requisite skills for their roles. Minister Agni Deo Singh reported that some applicants have misrepresented their qualifications, complicating matters for employers who rely on adequate skill sets in the workforce.
Concerns particularly arose regarding unskilled Bangladeshi workers, prompting the Ministry to work closely with relevant agencies to verify qualifications of applicants before their entry into the country. Singh noted that some companies have had to invest in additional training programs to ensure that overseas workers can integrate effectively into the Fijian labor market.
“We are also working on how we can manage these agencies that source workers from Bangladesh, to ensure that they are authentic,” Singh stated. This initiative is aimed at safeguarding both the integrity of the recruitment process and the operational needs of Fijian employers.
In collaboration with the Department of Immigration, the Ministry is ensuring that all overseas workers possess genuine qualifications. The Indian High Commissioner to Fiji, Suneet Mehta, referenced the eMigrate portal which is designed to verify the skills of prospective workers, assuring that only those who meet the workforce requirements will be granted work permits.
This proactive approach is not just a response to current challenges but reflects a growing commitment to refining labor practices in Fiji. By establishing stricter controls around worker qualifications, Fiji is taking steps to create a more reliable and skilled workforce.
The ongoing commitment from the Fijian government and authorities present a hopeful vision for the future of work conditions and opportunities, encouraging a more productive interaction between employers and foreign employees. Through these measures, there lies potential for creating a stable environment that fosters both economic growth and worker satisfaction.
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