Cabinet has approved the opening of eight new technical colleges in Fiji, says the Minister for Employment, Productivity and Industrial Relations, Semi Koroilavesau.
He made this revelation while launching the Basic Sewing Machinist Programme at the Suva Hospitality, Textile and Training Technical College on Wednesday.
“There are plans to open colleges in the Western and Northern Division,” Mr Koroilavesau said.
“We have witnessed positive outcomes through these programmes as as they have created employment opportunities to our people and the Government will continue with what it is doing,” he said.
Fiji Technical College board chairman, Kaushik Kumar said the Textiles, Clothing and Footwear (TCF) sector played a vital role in Fiji’s economy.
“Australia and New Zealand are now the major markets for our industry. Direct employment has now risen to over 7800 and exports are forecasted to be over $110m,”Mr Kumar said.
“This is one industry that is able to create jobs for the least employable and provide them with skills,”he said.
Technical College student, Viniana Nasilasila acknowledged the Government for the initiative. Litia Cava