Dr. Ganesh Chand, chairman of Pacific Polytech, has highlighted the absence of a national human resources strategy for Fiji, emphasizing a critical gap in government oversight for skills development. Speaking at the Nadi Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s annual business forum, he pointed out that there is no dedicated ministry or even a specific office within the government that focuses on this essential area.
Chand has advocated for the establishment of a separate government ministry to address skills development and labor issues, emphasizing the need for an appointed minister to lead this initiative. He expressed concerns that despite repeated requests since 2008 for the government to create a national HR plan, the progress has been slow, with consulting services from abroad often failing to provide detailed solutions.
He stressed that effective skills development requires accountability and a clear structure within the government. Currently, he noted the lack of concrete plans for workforce training, as there are no discussions about how many electricians or other skilled professionals Fiji needs, or how to make suitable investments in related training sectors, such as mining.
Chand also pointed out the confusion around the concept of skilled labor, underlining the necessity of understanding the varying categories of skilled workers: craft, vocational, trades, technical, and professional. Recognizing these distinctions is crucial for addressing the country’s workforce needs effectively.
This call to action presents an opportunity for the Fijian government to rethink its approach to human resources and skills development. By establishing a dedicated framework, Fiji can potentially create a more skilled workforce that meets both local and international labor market demands.
In summary, Dr. Chand’s insights emphasize the urgent need for a structured approach to skill development in Fiji, which could lead to significant advancements in the nation’s workforce capabilities. This situation, while challenging, offers a pathway to improvements that could benefit the economy and society as a whole in the long run.
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