The Government aims to expand vocational training to as many secondary schools as possible says Social Welfare Minister, Dr Jiko Luveni.
Yesterday she urged students to build on their talents as it can take them to new heights in their lives.
The Minister made these comments while launching the PEMAC and Vocational Departmental Week at Tailevu North College, Korovou Tailevu.
"Government’s plans for the education system is to create access to education for all the children in the country and as such, students are benefiting through the free bus fare scheme, free text books for classes one to eight and increase in the number of universities in Fiji from one to three.
“Educational institutions and schools will be upgraded in the rural areas so that parents can get their children educated in rural areas rather than sending them to towns and cities for further education,” Dr Luveni said.
Dr Luveni was impressed at Tailevu North College ability to offer vocational training in Carpentry and Catering, Agriculture, Automotive engineering and Secretarial studies.
“You are very fortunate to have these courses offered to you here and you must make maximum use of the services. You have to work really hard because when it comes to employment, we want to know what skills you have,” she reminded the students at the launch.
Dr Luveni emphasized Government’s decision to reduce the retirement age to 55 from 60.
“This was done to create posts so that when you students graduate, there are posts created for you in the employment centre. To create opportunities for you but you must understand that you must not rely on Government as there are job opportunities outside the civil service that you can grab.”
The Minister urged the students to work hard to make their dreams come true.
Highlighting the establishment of the National Employment Centre (NEC), Dr Luveni said this will assist vocational trainees in terms of further training and employment search.
She told students that they should make constructive use of the land available as this is a good income generating resource for them.
Dr Luveni reminded the students that their commitment to education is their future and that they should also realize and strengthen their talents.
“This week’s program is on Physical Education, Music, Arts and Craft (PEMAC). Talent is something which is already inherited. It is for you to know your talent and commit to strengthening it. It is known that students who take part in creative activities improve in their academic performance because when you work on your talent it improves your communication skills and it builds confidence. You, as students, should look deeper at what you are doing,” Dr Luveni said.