Twenty-four-year-old Ilaitia Caudre is now ready to put his learned skills to practise after graduating with a Carpentry Trainee Certificate at the Youth Training Centre in Nasau, near Sigatoka yesterday.

The Lomaiviti native plans to return to his village and help rebuild houses that were destroyed by Tropical Cyclone Winston in February.

“I am so happy after receiving this Certificate because the practical skills that I have learnt have enhanced my knowledge and understanding in carpentry.

His mother, Laisiasa Uluiviti said she was proud and happy with her son’s achievement and the graduation has been an eye opener for her.

“Seeing the courses that are offered to them and hearing how much they have done during their training has challenged me to be supportive of my child’s dream, “she said.

Ms Uluiviti who has two children believes that it is important for parents to support their children’s education.

Permanent Secretary for iTaukei Affairs, Naipote Katonitabua, who officiated at the graduation ceremony, reminded the youths to utilise their new found skills to look for employment and help contribute towards building their communities.

“Youths are a great resource to their families, society and nation. Your selection to attend Nasau was a well-thought one and that is for you to be trained and become a well-equipped and resourced person for your community, and ultimately your nation,” Mr Katonitabua said.

He also reminded youths “to beware of the latest development trends” and not to be swayed by its negative influences.

“All that you have learnt here in Nasau will be become useless if you don’t apply them in your everyday lives,” he advised.

Twenty-eight youths graduated with Carpenter General Class 3, while 12 trainees graduated with Certificates in Basic Agriculture.

Edited by Caroline Ratucadra

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