The Centre for Appropriate Technology and Development (CATD) is facing an unprecedented surge in demand for its Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programs, with an influx of approximately 500 applications each semester. However, the center’s infrastructure is currently limited to accommodating only 120 to 150 students at a time, leading to a situation where around 400 prospective learners have had to be turned away.
Director Aporosa Silatolu expressed the organization’s commitment to maintaining quality training even as they look to expand their enrollment capacity. “So we’ve had to turn away close to 400 students. But at the same time, we want to ensure quality training,” he noted. To address the shortage of space, CATD is actively recruiting additional trainers and seeking to expand its facilities.
In addition to increasing training capacity, CATD is investing in new equipment and technology to ensure that students are equipped with the skills needed for today’s job market. Furthermore, the center is exploring online and hybrid learning options to provide greater accessibility for students who may not be able to participate in-person.
Established in 1980, CATD serves as a vital institution in enhancing rural livelihoods through skill development, leadership training, and various vocational services. This commitment to community empowerment aligns with broader initiatives in Fiji’s educational landscape, which aim to equip individuals with the necessary skills to meet the workforce’s demands.
The plight of students being turned away highlights a growing issue within technical education in Fiji, affirming the urgent need for more robust educational frameworks to cater to rising demands. With the expansion of CATD’s resources and the introduction of innovative teaching methods, there is a positive outlook for the future of vocational training in the region.
Continued support and investment in these programs will be essential in developing a skilled workforce capable of driving economic growth and community resilience in Fiji.
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