The parade commander of the Naqere Youth Training Centre, Joeli Yabaki, stated that receiving the Baton of Honour has highlighted the importance of time management in his life. The 18-year-old, originally from Nabouwalu, Bua, participated in the carpentry program at the training center in Savusavu.
Yabaki described the cadet passing-out parade for students from the Fiji National Youth Training Centre as an emotional and overwhelming occasion. The event combined students from two Ministry of Youth training centers located in Naleba, Labasa, and Naqere, Savusavu.
A total of 25 male and seven female cadets from Naleba, along with 24 male and two female students from Naqere, completed their cadet training course. Yabaki noted that the seven weeks of training instilled values of discipline and honesty while helping young people understand their responsibilities as patriotic citizens.
“The training allowed me to develop personally and helped me make wise and timely decisions while leading the parade,” he remarked. His family was present at the event, and he emphasized that today’s youth often engage in unproductive activities. He learned the significance of using time wisely for productive pursuits.
As the overall best all-rounder, Yabaki expressed that this cadet training program should be held annually to positively impact more students. He acknowledged that all cadets initially felt pressured to meet the expectations of their parents and teachers, but noted that their confidence grew with each successful drill.