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, announced this initiative during the Top Executives Conference 2024 at the Sofitel Fiji Resort and Spa in Denarau.
Moody emphasized that this project represents a significant investment in the local workforce, focusing on skills development tailored to the needs of employers. The career center will be modeled after a successful initiative from California, with plans to establish a facility in Suva by 2025 in partnership with Fiji National University. Moody highlighted the ongoing skills shortage of qualified Pacific Island seafarers, which is critical for operating their 11 vessels servicing the Pacific.
To date, FIJI Water has invested more than FJ$140 million to expand its operations by approximately 47%, with expectations of needing a larger workforce over the next decade to meet this capacity. The proposed career center aims to create a solid skills pipeline, ensuring that training programs are designed to render participants job-ready and aligned with industry requirements. The organization plans to invite other sectors within the manufacturing and marine industries to collaborate through an industry council.
This initiative signals a proactive approach to tackling labor shortages by fostering local talent and aligning educational programs with market demands. With a strong focus on skill development and upward mobility, there is hope that this career center will bolster Fiji’s workforce and contribute to economic growth.
Overall, this program brings the promise of creating new opportunities for job seekers and strengthening the workforce in Fiji, which could lead to a more robust economy.
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