Fiji will soon be sending volunteers to Papua New Guinea (PNG) and Timor Leste.
Public Service Commission (PSC) permanent secretary, Parmesh Chand highlighted that this opportunity is credited to the successful consultations by the Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ratu Inoke Kubuabola and officials of the Fiji Volunteer Scheme (FVS) administered by the PSC with relevant counterparts in PNG and Timor Leste.
Mr Chand said that the respective governments were briefed on the terms, conditions and entitlements for volunteers, the latest dispatch of volunteers to the region and the number of Pacific island countries who have expressed interest in engaging FVS Volunteers.
He said the consultative meetings was promising given that relevant line agencies have shown keen interest in the scheme and appreciated the information provided.
“This is an indication of the importance and sustainability of the Fiji Volunteer Scheme.”
Requests for volunteers from Timor Leste included English teachers, Nurses, Ambulance Drivers, English translators and Legal Officers. Papua New Guinea indicated considering the Scheme in the East Sepik Province.
Mr Chand said the concept of volunteering under the FVS is about nation building and participating in programs in society that will bring about civic pride and patriotism on the part of individuals who are involved.
“Individuals who are willing to offer their skills and expertise are encouraged to register as an Unemployed Graduate Trainee Volunteer, a Senior Volunteer (Local) or a Senior Volunteer (Regional),” Mr Chand added.
He said under the scheme, local volunteers are eligible for a weekly allowance of $100 of which 50% is paid by FVS and 50% by the host Ministry or Agency.
A person who wishes to be engaged as a Volunteer needs to first register with the National Employment Centre and can then be identified to be part of the Fiji Volunteer Scheme program.
The Public Service has released an expression of interest for FVS volunteer registration and more information on FVS can be accessed at www.psc.gov.fj.
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