Fiji is currently grappling with a concerning youth unemployment rate, which stands at nearly 20%, according to Mo’az Khan, the mock Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs and Deputy Speaker. During a recent mock Youth Parliament sitting, Khan highlighted alarming data from the Fiji Bureau of Statistics, showing that one in four young Fijians is disengaged from work, education, or training. This paints a picture of untapped potential and a potential threat to the nation’s future.
Khan pointed to the issue of skilled labor shortages, indicating that employers struggle to find qualified workers, while talented young Fijians often seek opportunities abroad. “If this problem is not addressed,” he warned, “Fiji risks losing more than just jobs—we stand to lose hope, ambition, and the very future of our country.”
In response to this challenge, Khan pointed to the government’s National Youth Employment and Skills Development Program, emphasizing the need for expanded vocational training in sectors such as ICT, tourism, agriculture, and renewable energy. He advocated for a strong foundation for the youth, proposing the creation of an environment conducive to their success, including guaranteed apprenticeships with industry players.
Moreover, Khan urged the government and stakeholders to confront issues such as drug abuse and social instability, advocating for a zero-tolerance approach towards traffickers and proposing a second-chance program for young drug users. His call echoes a broader consensus on the need for comprehensive reforms in Fiji’s educational and vocational training systems, which has been a recurring theme in discussions among policymakers and industry leaders.
Efforts to improve the situation are gaining momentum, as highlighted by the Fiji Commerce and Employers Federation’s push to direct overseas labor schemes towards unemployed youth rather than skilled workers. The federation has identified the disconnect between available skills and employer needs as a long-term challenge that requires immediate attention.
These concerns are not new. Past discussions have underscored the importance of aligning educational outcomes with market demands, stressing the urgency of revising outdated curricula and enhancing vocational training. A national taskforce has been established to tackle these issues, aiming to provide data-driven solutions that better prepare Fiji’s youth for the workforce.
The collective initiative involves forming stronger collaborations between government, employers, and educational institutions. By fostering this cooperative approach, Fiji aims to create a robust labor market that not only addresses the current skills gap but also ensures a brighter future for the younger generation.
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