Nine women of Malake Island, off Rakiraki, were part of a group of 109 youths who received their Boat Master Class 6 licences last Friday.

The two-week training was co-ordinated by the Ministry of Youth and Sports in partnership with the Fiji Islands Maritime Safety Administration (FIMSA).

They received their certificates from the Minister for Youth and Sports Laisenia Tuitubou.

Sainimere Ranovu said: “I am overwhelmed with this training and for my Boat Master’s Licence.

“This is male dominated work and with this licence, I will be able to operate a boat and never depend on men to go fetch food or go to the mainland for shopping,” said Ms Ranovu.

Malake Island is home to more than 20 boats and more than 100 young people who depend on marine resources for income.

“I was determined from the first day to get my licence so I can operate a boat from Malake to Rakiraki and also to fish and I am grateful for this opportunity and achievement,” said Sereima.

The Ministry of Youth and Sports facilitated this much-needed training for youths on Malake Island since they have been operating boats for many years without training and qualifications.

“Government and FIMSA is concerned about your safety and the safety of those you carry with you on the open seas,” said Minister Tuitubou while closing the two-week training last Friday.

“Government will ensure that boat operators operate within the confines of maritime regulations and laws and follow procedures, requirements to avoid mishaps causing loss of lives.”

He also challenged youths of Malake to “add value to their achievement and pursue further training and qualifications.”

“If you have passion to become a sailor and travel or work in bigger vessels, you can pursue further training with this accreditation,” Minister Tuitubou said.

Carpentry

Meanwhile, in 50 youths became qualified carpenters after completing a two-week carpentry training at Savulotu village in Ra.

The training targeted youths from 10 villages of Nakorotubu-i-vanua District and also included youth participants from the districts of Nalawa and Saivou in Ra.

Source: DEPTFO News

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