Joeli Yabaki, the parade commander from Naqere Youth Training Centre, has shared that receiving the Baton of Honour has reinforced the importance of time management in his life. The 18-year-old, hailing from Nabouwalu, Bua, enrolled in the carpentry program at the training facility located in Savusavu.
Yabaki characterized the cadet passing-out parade for Fiji National Youth Training Centre students as a deeply emotional and overwhelming experience. The event featured a joint parade for students from two Ministry of Youth training centres, one in Naleba, Labasa, and the other in Naqere, Savusavu, which took place yesterday.
The parade celebrated the completion of cadet training for 25 males and seven females from Naleba, along with 24 males and two females from Naqere. Yabaki remarked that the seven-week training period instilled a sense of discipline and honesty in the participants, while also educating them on their responsibilities as patriotic citizens.
“The training has greatly contributed to my personal growth, allowing me to make sound and timely decisions while leading the parade,” he stated. With family members in attendance, Yabaki reflected on how many young people today engage in unproductive activities. He believes it is vital for youth to spend their time in productive and meaningful ways.
As the overall best all-rounder of the program, Yabaki advocates for the continuation of cadet training on an annual basis to foster positive development among more students. He acknowledged that all cadets initially felt pressure to meet the expectations of their parents and teachers. Nevertheless, he noted that with each successful drill, participants gained confidence and poise.