The Fiji Commerce & Employers Federation (FCEF) has expressed serious concerns about the future of Fiji’s workforce due to the alarming failure rates among students and the prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) affecting the working-age population. Recent statistics indicated that nearly half of the students who participated in the year eight examination did not pass, while approximately 64 percent of NCD-related deaths occur among individuals of working age.
Edward Bernard, the Chief Executive of FCEF, emphasized that the state of education and health is creating a worrying situation for employers. He pointed out that tertiary institutions rely on students possessing foundational literacy and numeracy skills to effectively provide higher education and vocational training necessary for a productive workforce. This shortfall in basic skills poses a challenge for both educational institutions and prospective students aiming for self-employment opportunities.
Bernard urged a critical examination of the current educational policies, particularly the no-repeat policy, to foster better outcomes for students and prepare them for future opportunities. He also highlighted the need for the healthcare system to focus more on preventative measures rather than solely on curative treatments. This shift is essential to manage the impact of NCDs, which, according to a recent World Bank report, costs Fiji an estimated $591 million annually and affects employers who contribute to public healthcare through various levies.
Looking forward, FCEF is seeking to collaborate with government agencies and development partners to implement programs that encourage healthy lifestyles among workers. This initiative aims to create a healthier and more productive workforce that can effectively respond to the challenges faced in both education and health.
In summary, the FCEF is advocating for a holistic approach to improve educational outcomes and health conditions, which is crucial for the sustainability of Fiji’s labor market. By investing in the youth’s education and health, the potential for a revitalized workforce can be realized, leading to a brighter economic future for Fiji.
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