In 1985, the Ministry of Education in Fiji initiated the Volunteer Service Scheme (VSS), selecting 200 youths from an initial pool of 450 applicants. This selection marked the start of a program designed to place volunteers, primarily in teaching roles, across the nation. The chosen candidates underwent interviews and attended orientation programs conducted at multiple locations including Suva, Lautoka, and Labasa. These orientations were essential in preparing the volunteers for their roles in various educational settings.
The program aimed to address immediate educational needs by positioning volunteers in teaching roles that spanned a variety of subjects such as English, mathematics, science, and practical skills like industrial arts, home economics, and carpentry. Despite facing resistance from teachers’ unions concerned about the impact on existing jobs, the government underscored the importance of implementing this policy as part of a broader commitment to community development and education.
Volunteers accepted into the program were required to sign a letter of appointment agreeing to a taxable annual salary of $3000, with additional benefits including contributions to the Fiji National Provident Fund and potential grant-in-aid teaching positions following satisfactory service completion. The scheme also provided free accommodation where necessary, ensuring that volunteers had a stable living situation as they embarked on their assignments.
Through the VSS, the government sought not only to fill gaps in the education sector but also to instill a sense of civic duty and professional development among the youth. The program stands as an early effort in a series of educational and civic initiatives in Fiji, aimed at empowering young individuals to contribute positively to national development.
Reflecting on similar efforts in the region, like the proposed National Service curriculum by the University of Fiji, the VSS highlights the longstanding tradition of engaging youths in meaningful service roles. These initiatives showcase the potential for structured volunteer programs to address critical social needs, foster community engagement, and build a more cohesive society.
This initiative was part of broader movements within the country to empower youth and equip them with essential skills for future success, as seen in other modern programs focused on education, civic training, and youth empowerment. These programs collectively reflect a positive trend towards integrating service and education for the betterment of society.
Leave a comment