Here in Fiji, registered schools and youth groups are awarded according to lifelong skills portrayed by the activities logged in their journals during the programme period.

Mr Bala acknowledged participants for their commitment.

“With this award ceremony, the Central Division will now surpass the 100 mark having been awarded 122 awardees with silver and bronze awards,” Mr Bala said.

“Also, I must acknowledge the co-ordinators, trainers, teachers, parents.”

Mr Bala acknowledged the Republic of Fiji Military Forces, Fiji Red Cross Society and the National Fire Authority for always providing assistance in travelling, with participants during excursions or related field tours.

He said through the ministry, non- formal education programmes such as the Duke of Edinburgh’s international award are mandated to carry out empowerment training specifically to develop the youths.

“The Ministries of Youth and Sports and Education, through the award programme, wish to develop critical thinking and problem- solving skills which will ultimately improve students academic performance,” he said.

Participant

Waisale Raduva, who is currently pursuing his diploma in pacific language at the University of the South Pacific said that award was timely.

He was among the participants awarded following intense weeks of training .

The award had over the years aided the previous awardees in recruitment process for the British Army and other international up-skill jobs.

“Like other awardees, I’m grateful, this award may not be known to many, but the chances of awardees like us to get international jobs is highly guaranteed,” Mr Raduva said.

Feedback: jone.salusalu@fijisun.com.fj