A new career center is being proposed to address the labor shortage in Fiji, spearheaded by Natural Waters of Viti Pte Limited, the producers of FIJI Water. Marigold Moody, the assistant general counsel for the South Pacific, shared these plans during the Top Executives Conference 2024 at the Sofitel Fiji Resort and Spa in Denarau, asserting that this initiative is a significant investment in Fiji’s workforce.
Moody indicated that the career center will follow a model similar to that of the company’s California operations and will focus on developing skills among the workforce in Fiji. “We are investing in Fiji’s workforce through skills development,” she said, emphasizing that training aimed at making individuals job-ready is a priority.
The introduction of the career center is particularly critical due to a notable skills shortage in the region, especially among Pacific Island seafarers, as noted by Moody. With FIJI Water’s recent investment of over FJ$140 million to expand its operations, there’s a growing need for qualified personnel to support increased capacity over the next decade.
The company plans to collaborate with Fiji National University to establish the center in Suva by 2025. While acknowledging that the timeline may be flexible, Moody highlighted the importance of cultivating a workforce that meets the specific needs of businesses in the manufacturing and marine sectors.
Involving multiple industry players through an industry council will be essential to ensure the program addresses real employer needs effectively. This initiative not only aims to provide valuable training and career opportunities but also fosters a collaborative environment among different sectors in Fiji.
This development signals a positive step towards bridging the skills gap in Fiji, potentially leading to better job prospects for many and strengthening the overall economy. By investing in education and training, there is hope for a more skilled workforce that can meet the demands of growing industries.
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