The parade commander from the Naqere Youth Training Centre, Joeli Yabaki, believes that receiving the Baton of Honour has highlighted the importance of time management in his life. The 18-year-old, hailing from Nabouwalu in Bua, enrolled in the carpentry program at the training facility in Savusavu.
Mr. Yabaki described the passing-out parade for Fiji National Youth Training Centre students as both emotional and an overwhelming experience. The event featured graduates from two Ministry of Youth training centres in Naleba, Labasa, and Naqere, Savusavu, who participated in a joint cadet passing-out ceremony.
The parade celebrated the completion of the cadet training course by 25 male and 7 female cadets from Naleba, along with 24 male and 2 female students from Naqere. Mr. Yabaki noted that the seven-week training period fostered discipline, honesty, and a sense of patriotic duty among the youth.
“The training allowed me to develop personally and to make informed and timely decisions while leading the parade,” he stated. With family members in attendance, he reflected on how many young people today engage in unproductive activities, stressing the need for youth to use their time effectively in meaningful pursuits.
Named the overall best all-rounder, Mr. Yabaki advocated for the continuation of this annual cadet training, suggesting it would positively impact more students. He acknowledged the initial pressure cadets felt to meet the expectations of their parents and teachers but highlighted that their confidence grew with each successful drill.