The Fiji Commerce & Employers Federation (FCEF) has issued a caution regarding the future of Fiji’s workforce, highlighting the urgent need for investment and action to address two significant issues: the alarming student failure rate and the high incidence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) among the working-age population.
Recent data shows that nearly half of the students who participated in this year’s year eight examinations did not pass, while approximately 80 percent of deaths in the country are linked to NCDs, with 64 percent occurring in individuals of working age. Edward Bernard, the Chief Executive of FCEF, expressed deep concern about these trends, stating that they pose a serious threat to the availability and productivity of the future labor market.
He emphasized that tertiary institutions rely on students who possess essential literacy and numeracy skills to provide them with higher education and vocational training necessary for workforce readiness. The current academic challenges may hinder these institutions’ effectiveness in preparing students for the job market.
Moreover, students lacking foundational skills face additional obstacles in pursuing self-employment, and the government, along with donor agencies that provide business grants, must address these educational disparities. Starting and sustaining small enterprises is particularly challenging due to the high cost of doing business and the absence of adequate skills.
Bernard urged for a reevaluation of the education system, including a review of the no-repeat policy, to enhance student outcomes and benefit tertiary institutions and employers alike. He also stressed the necessity for the medical system to invest more in preventative care rather than solely focusing on hospital-based treatments. This shift is crucial for nurturing a healthier workforce, as indicated by a recent World Bank report stating that NCDs cost Fiji $591 million annually.
In response to these challenges, FCEF is actively seeking partnerships with relevant government agencies and development partners to implement programs aimed at promoting healthier, more active lifestyles within the workforce.
In summary, the FCEF calls for a collaborative approach to improve education and health outcomes, emphasizing that these sectors are critical to ensuring a robust future workforce in Fiji. By tackling these issues head-on, there is the potential for meaningful change that could enhance the nation’s economic and social prospects.
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