Fiji youth entrepreneurs yesterday launched their commitments to achieve greater integrity in their business operations.

The Young Entrepreneurs Council (YEC) under Fiji Commerce and Employers Federation (FCEF) officially launched the Outcome Statement.

They did so in collaboration with United Nations Pacific Regional Anti-Corruption Project (UN-PRAC) along with other key stakeholders.

The Outcome Statement was developed from the Fiji Young Entrepreneur Integrity workshops held around the country last year.

FCEF chief executive officer, Kameli Batiweti said the formulation of the idea to conduct training on business integrity for the young entrepreneurs was welcomed by FCEF in 2020.

“Both our Young Entrepreneurs Council and the Women Entrepreneur Council participated and contributed to the training organised by our UN partners,” he said.

“We will work with all the young entrepreneurs, start-ups, and those wishing to establish a business in Fiji to provide them with guidance and support in building integrity as an integral part of their business ventures.”

He added the commitment to fight against corruption was what the FCEF supported.

“The Outcome Statement is an important document for the YEC and FCEF and for all young business owners to safeguard their business.

“And to promote business integrity among young entrepreneurs who plan to start a business or already have started a business.”

Fiji youth entrepreneurs have committed to a total of seven integrity actions:
– Commit to business integrity,
– Address corruption,
– Prioritise compliance,
– Support decent work,
– Enhance resilient and innovative businesses,
– Go far, go together and,
– Monitoring and evaluation

Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) Principal corruption prevention officer Arti Naidu has commended the young entrepreneurs in their effort against corrupt business practices.

“You are not only the next generation of entrepreneurs, but you are also the game changers,” she said.

“What you do now will set path to what will happen maybe 10, 20 or even 30 years down the line.”

“With this, FICAC invites you to accept the challenge of eliminiating corruption in the fraternity.”

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